Kansas City’s done it again. This year’s Animal Health Corridor events held August 30-31st were a “trifecta.” Between the Biosecurity Research Symposium to the Homecoming Dinner and the Investment Forum, AND a separate media event with Jack Hanna, there was something for everyone.
While we’ve been involved with the Homecoming Dinner and attended the Investment Forum, the Symposium was new for us. A feature of the program was updates on the National Bio & Agro Defense Facility. Dr. Ralph Richardson, dean of K-State University’s School of Veterinary Medicine provided his views in a video interview with Dan Verdon.
We actually had two roles this year. We handled media relations AND we were proud to be a lead sponsor for the “Late Night in the Corridor with Fintan Molloy” Homecoming Dinner www.KCAnimalHealth.com/homecoming and the Investment Forum, where 21 early-stage companies presented their business plans.
Our day on Monday August 30th began with the BioSecurity Research Symposium with a bevy of speakers including the story of the discovery of the West Nile Virus from former Bronx Zoo senior pathologist Tracey S. McNamara, DVM, ACVP and keynote speaker Larry Barret, DVM, MS, ACVPM, Director of the Plum island Animal Disease Center. Fascinating stuff!
Then, it was on to coordinating a local media event featuring an appearance of Jack Hanna, the executive director of the Kansas City Zoo, and an assortment of beautiful animals including a CHEETAH. This all in the OLD lobby of the Muehlbach hotel.
After a great networking reception we hosted an outstanding group of animal health professionals at our table at the Homecoming dinner. Tuesday morning, August 31st, it was an early morning. I introduced the first few companies presenting to investment firms and leading animal health companies hoping to secure a round of funding.
I am encouraging anyone in animal health to register and attend all the events next year — they have become not to be missed opportunities.
“Jackpot ,” a fabulous poodle/bichon mix is our latest contest winner. He took home the prize of $100 in pet toys and his owner, Vicki Howell got to donate a matching gift to the Hurst Texas animal shelter to boot. Register at www.goodnewsforpets.com to get notice of the next contest!
