Established by the Alumni Association in 1986, the Daniel Elmer Salmon Award for Distinguished Alumni Service honors Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine DVM graduates who have distinguished themselves in service to the profession, their communities or to the college. 

The award is named in honor of Cornell's first DVM graduate, who is remembered for his pioneering work in controlling contagious animal diseases in the early 20th century.  Dr. James Law was appointed the first professor of veterinary medicine when Cornell University opened its doors in 1868 and Daniel Elmer Salmon was one of his first students. Salmon received the Bachelor of Veterinary Science degree in 1872 and entered practice in Newark, NJ. He continued his advanced research at Cornell and in 1876 he was awarded the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. This was the first DVM degree to be awarded in the United States of America. 

To nominate for the Salmon Award, click here for more information.