Patty Scharko, 2024 Distinguished Veterinarian of the Year

Congratulations to Patty Scharko, faculty member in the Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) and the Animal and Veterinary Sciences Department in the College of Agriculture, Forestry, and Life Sciences (CAFLS). She's been named the 2024 Distinguished Veterinarian of the Year for the South Carolina Association of Veterinarians (SCAV). The Distinguished Veterinarian of the Year is presented to one or more senior veterinarian(s) who has/have served the veterinary profession during the years of his/her/their practice. She was nominated by Boyd Parr, President of SCAV and Co-Chair of the CVM Steering Committee.

"Dr. Scharko quickly comes to mind for me and many others for her many years of service to the profession and the citizens of South Carolina," said Parr. "Dr. Scharko is a friend to many and highly respected throughout the S.C. veterinary and animal agriculture communities."

Scharko serves as an extension and field veterinarian with Clemson University Livestock Poultry Health in Columbia, S.C. and works primarily with ruminants such as cattle, goats and sheep. Her major areas of activities include biosecurity, Beef Quality Assurance, Scrapie eradication and parasite control training in small ruminants.

"I was honored, delighted and grateful to win the award," said Scharko. "Over the past years, I have seen others receive this award, including Boyd Parr! They were definitely worthy of being 'Distinguished Veterinarian of the Year'."

Scharko earned her undergraduate degree and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) at the University of Georgia (UGA). Like many students who grow up in South Carolina, there were no options to go to vet school in the state at the time. She's proud to be back in South Carolina, and she's proud to help build the first college of veterinary medicine in the state.

"I have hoped that my efforts over the past 16 years could contribute to veterinary medicine, livestock producers, and South Carolina," said Scharko. "I grew up in Columbia, and I attended UGA as a South Carolina resident. I am very happy that the CVM here at Clemson University is growing and developing to welcome S.C. residents into veterinary medicine in 2026!"

The other awards given at the SCAV Palmetto Conference are: Rana Sargent, Veterinary Clinic Employee of the Year; Zohra Badat and Jessica DeAbate, Licensed Veterinary Technicians of the Year; Dr. Sarah Scott, Humanitarian of the Year; and, Dr. Tim Loonam, Veterinarian of the Year.

"What an honor for the Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine to be a part of this prestigious recognition," said Founding Dean, Steven Marks. "I so appreciate Dr. Scharko's expertise and input as we build this college from the ground up. She's an asset to our team. Congratulations to Dr. Scharko as well as to all of the recipients from around the state. Go Tigers!"