John R. Welser

John Welser’’s 4-H experiences prepared him for a career in veterinary medicine and research. From 1975 to 1983, Welser served as dean of the MSU College of Veterinary Medicine. During his tenure at MSU, a toxicological service was established on campus in the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology funded by legislative support and by 1978 all diagnostic services were integrated into an Animal Health Diagnostic Laboratory. In 1978, with the recommendation of several deans, including Welser, a Center for Environmental Toxicology was established. In 1983, Welser joined the Pharmacia & Upjohn Company where he chaired the Animal Health Institute, the U.S. trade association representing manufacturers of animal health products. In 2000, he became president and CEO of the Michigan Biological Institute (MBI) International, a role he served until he retired in 2002. Welser has served as a consultant for ECHO, an International Ecological Organization and co-authored several books and abstracts and contributed to numerous other publications related to veterinary medicine. He received his bachelor’s master’s and doctor of veterinary medicine degrees from Michigan State University and a doctorate in veterinary anatomy from Purdue University. Welser served as a board member for the East Lansing Bank, the MSU Foundation and the National Academy of Science. He is a current member of the Veterinary Medicine Academy, National Academies of Practice and the American Veterinary Medical Association. He is also a long-time Kiwanis member, IFYE Association lifetime member and active in his local church. Additionally, Welser was a founding donor of the Michigan 4-H International Programs Endowment. He has been honored for his service with the Upjohn Award and the MSU Distinguished Alumnus Award.