Dr. R. Tod Beckett, a 1989 graduate of The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, has built a remarkable career defined by clinical excellence, visionary leadership, and transformative mentorship.

Beginning in mixed animal practice and later serving as a lead trauma surgeon, Dr. Beckett now oversees multiple VCA hospitals in the Columbus area as Medical Director, leading a team of over 80 professionals. His leadership has brought advanced surgical and medical services—such as his own double-reinforced lateral suture technique for CCL injuries—into general practice settings, greatly expanding access to high-quality care.

Beyond his clinical contributions, Dr. Beckett is deeply committed to education and professional development. He has mentored countless veterinary students and early-career professionals through externships, internships, and direct clinical teaching. His mentorship emphasizes both technical skill and professional confidence, offering students immediate hands-on experience and personal encouragement. Many mentees now hold leadership positions, including Medical Director roles, thanks to his support and example.

Dr. Beckett has created meaningful opportunities for underrepresented students in veterinary medicine, fostering a supportive and welcoming environment for all. His service extends to the profession and community as former President of the Ohio Veterinary Medical Association, board member of the Columbus State Veterinary Technology Program, and past President of the Columbus Humane Society. He continues to support more than 20 rescue organizations statewide.

Dr. Beckett’s enduring connection to Ohio State is reflected in his service on the Veterinary Medical Advancement Board and Alumni Council. His career exemplifies the college’s values of leadership, service, and mentorship. 
 

Dr. Susan E. Orosz received her DVM in 1984 from The Ohio State University. Prior to that, she graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science from Heidelberg College and earned a Ph.D. in Neuroanatomy from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. This strong academic foundation has propelled a distinguished career spanning clinical practice, research, education, and public service.

A dual diplomate in avian medicine through both the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners and the European College of Avian Medicine and Surgery, Dr. Orosz is widely recognized as a pioneer in the field. She has served as president of the Association of Avian Veterinarians and was named the Lafeber Practitioner of the Year.

Her scholarly contributions include numerous research articles, book chapters, and several authoritative texts, most notably Avian Surgical Anatomy: Thoracic and Pelvic Limbs, which received top honors from the Society for Technical Communication. Her international reputation is reflected in her frequent invited lectures, including at the University of Vienna.

At the University of Tennessee, Dr. Orosz serves as Assistant Professor in Avian and Exotic Animal Medicine and Veterinary Anatomy. She is known for her excellence in teaching, mentorship, and service, and was recognized as a finalist for the university’s Tribute to Women Award. Her weekly Zoom tutorials for ABVP board candidates highlight her commitment to training future veterinary specialists.

In addition to her academic work, Dr. Orosz has served on the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture’s Advisory Committee on Foreign Animal and Poultry Diseases, chairs the IACUC at Bowling Green State University, and engages in international community service through Toledo Sister Cities and Hungarian-American initiatives.
 

Dr. John C. Prososki is a pioneer in reproductive genetics and a leader in the dairy and embryo transfer (ET) industries. A 1986 graduate of The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Prososki has dedicated his career to advancing food animal practice and shaping the future of dairy cattle reproduction.

As founder of Wittenberg Embryo Transfer, he provides full-service ET care, including international embryo marketing. His innovative work integrating IVF and embryo culture techniques into real-world farm environments has set a new standard in applying reproductive technology. He helped refine methods to collect and transport ova to off-site labs—work that has influenced genetic progress both domestically and globally.

Dr. Prososki owns and breeds some of the world’s leading Holstein genetics, working alongside his sons, including Dr. Aaron Prososki. Together, they operate two dairy farms and a bull stud, making theirs a true veterinary and agricultural family enterprise. His visionary leadership also extends to professional service: he served as President of the American Embryo Transfer Association, led legislative efforts to preserve ET as a veterinary procedure in Wisconsin, and has mentored countless colleagues.

Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Prososki is admired for his character, work ethic, and commitment to community. He and his wife, Dr. Linda Prososki (OSU CVM ’87), raised four children who share their values of perseverance and service.

Known for his humility and willingness to help, Dr. Prososki’s career exemplifies innovation, leadership, and the enduring impact of Buckeye alumni in food animal medicine. His contributions continue to shape the industry and inspire future veterinarians.

Dr. Ashlie M. Saffire, a 2011 graduate of The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, is a nationally and internationally recognized leader in feline medicine. Early in her career, she recognized gaps in the standard of care for feline patients and committed herself to raising that bar. Her dedication led her to become a Diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (Feline Practice)—a distinction held by only 54 practitioners in the U.S. and just two in Ohio.

Dr. Saffire now hosts one of only five ABVP Feline Residencies, mentoring veterinarians through the intensive three-year board certification process. She also serves as a tutor for the University of Sydney’s Centre for Veterinary Education, where she teaches feline medicine to veterinarians around the world. Her passion for education and communication has taken her to veterinary clinics in Argentina, and she is a frequent speaker at major conferences such as VMX, WVC, Feline VMA, and the Purina Global Summit.

Currently the President of the Feline Veterinary Medical Association (2024–2025), Dr. Saffire plays a key role in shaping global feline health guidelines, policies, and education. She has also led initiatives to re-engage veterinary students post-COVID through her role as Student Development Chair.

Her contributions to clinical research include monitoring feline clinical trials in collaboration with pharmaceutical companies and universities, including OSU, and co-authoring peer-reviewed publications on topics such as osteoarthritis, renal disease, and diabetes.

Dr. Saffire remains closely connected to Ohio State through her involvement in admissions interviews, guest lectures, and as a mentor to fourth-year externs. Her efforts embody the mission of OSU CVM through advocacy, mentorship, and a deep commitment to advancing feline veterinary medicine.