The RCVS Veterinary Nursing Golden Jubilee Award
Learn about the distinguished veterinary nurses who have received the RCVS Veterinary Nursing Golden Jubilee Award, and discover how to submit a nomination.
The Queen's Medal Award
The RCVS Queen's Medal represents the highest honour for veterinary surgeons, recognising careers of sustained excellence and exceptional contribution. This prestigious annual award celebrates professionals who have made extraordinary impacts on veterinary medicine and beyond
Who can be nominated?
The RCVS Queen’s Medal celebrates exceptional contributions to veterinary science, practice, or service that have significantly advanced the profession and animal welfare. Awarded to just one member each year, it is the pinnacle of professional recognition within UK veterinary medicine. The award is open to veterinary surgeons (MRCVS), excluding current RCVS Council and VN Council members.
How to make a nomination
Nominations can be made by any Members of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (MRCVS) or Registered Veterinary Nurses (RVNs). This excludes current RCVS Council and VN Council members.
To nominate, download and complete the PDF nomination form, providing as much detail as possible about why the nominee deserves the award. Strong nominations show how the candidate has advanced veterinary science, improved animal welfare, or enhanced the profession's standing.
Completed forms should be submitted via our Honours and Awards web form.
If you experience any issues accessing the form, contact Kieran Thakrar, Executive Assistant to the CEO, at [email protected]. Send completed forms to Kieran Thakrar at [email protected].
Key dates
- Deadline for nominations: 5pm, Wednesday 7 January 2026.
- Winners announced: [TBC, to be added]
- Awards ceremony RCVS Day, 3 July 2026
Past recipients
Vets who have received the RCVS Queen’s Medal represent the very best in veterinary achievement across clinical practice, research, education and public service. Their diverse contributions showcase the breadth and depth of excellence within the veterinary profession.
2024 - Professor Stuart Reid CBE FRCVS
Professor Reid, current President of the Royal Veterinary College, received the Queen’s Medal in recognition of his distinguished academic and professional career. His leadership has strengthened veterinary education and research, while his commitment to the profession spans decades of dedicated service to veterinary institutions and the advancement of animal welfare.
2023 - Dr Bruce Fogle MBE MRCVS
As a prominent London veterinary practice director and celebrated author, Dr Fogle has shaped public understanding of animal care through his extensive writing and media work. His contributions to veterinary practice and education of pet owners have had a lasting impact on animal welfare standards.
2022 - Professor Mike Herrtage FRCVS
Based at Cambridge Veterinary School, Professor Heritage has made outstanding contributions to veterinary education and small animal medicine. His work has advanced clinical practice while inspiring generations of veterinary professionals who continue to benefit from his expertise.
2021 - Dr John (Iain) Glen MRCVS
Dr Glen's groundbreaking research at AstraZeneca led to the development of Propofol, a widely used anaesthetic that has revolutionised both veterinary and human medicine. His pharmaceutical work has improved surgical outcomes and patient safety across multiple species, demonstrating the impact of veterinary innovation on broader healthcare.
2020 - Dr Mary Stewart MRCVS
Dr Stewart’s decades of service to the University of Glasgow have advanced veterinary education and research. Her contributions have been permanently recognised with a university building named in her honour, reflecting the lasting impact of her work on the institution and the students she taught and inspired.
2019 - Professor The Lord Trees MRCVS
As a member of the House of Lords and former academic at the University of Liverpool, Lord Trees exemplifies the veterinary profession's contribution to public policy and governance. His work bridges veterinary science with national decision-making, ensuring animal welfare and public health remain central to government priorities.
2018 - Professor Peter Clegg FRCVS
Professor Clegg's distinguished career at the University of Liverpool has advanced equine veterinary medicine through innovative research and clinical excellence. His contributions to equine health have improved outcomes for horses and trained future veterinarians in cutting-edge approaches to large animal medicine.
2017 - Dr Barry Johnson MRCVS
With 28 years of dedicated service on the RCVS Council, Dr Johnson has shaped veterinary regulation and professional standards throughout his career. His sustained commitment to governance and professional development has strengthened the veterinary profession's ability to serve animals and society alike.
2016 - Professor Randolph Richards MRCVS
A leading authority in fish health, Professor Richards has advanced aquatic veterinary medicine through pioneering research and clinical expertise. His work has improved fish welfare standards and supported sustainable aquaculture practices, demonstrating the vital role of veterinary medicine in food security and environmental health.
2015 - Lord Soulsby of Swaffham Prior HonFRCVS
As the first veterinarian to sit in the House of Lords, Lord Soulsby was a trailblazer for the profession's involvement in national governance. His distinguished career in veterinary science and public service established important precedents for veterinary contributions to policy-making and legislation.
2014 - Desmond James Thompson OBE HonFRCVS (d.September 2024)
The late Mr Thompson made significant contributions to veterinary medicine in Northern Ireland, strengthening the profession across the region. His work improved veterinary services and education, ensuring high standards of animal care and professional practice throughout Northern Ireland's veterinary community.