The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) will welcome Nancy Soares, VMD, owner of Macungie Animal Hospital, as new president of its Board of Directors at its annual conference in April.

“The AAHA staff is excited to welcome Dr. Soares as our new incoming present for 2016-2017,” said Michael Cavanaugh, DVM, DABVP, chief executive officer of AAHA. “Dr. Soares is a strong and sharp leader for AAHA; we are proud to have her leading the AAHA Board of Directors in 2016-2017.”

Soares earned her VMD from the University of Pennsylvania in 2002, and her bachelor’s degree from Temple University in 1987. In 2007, after working as an associate veterinarian for five years, Soares established her own practice, Macungie Animal Hospital, where she serves as owner and medical director. Her practice became AAHA accredited in 2008, took home the AAHA-Accredited Practice of the Year Award in 2013, and has grown to include five full-time veterinarians. Macungie Animal Hospital consistently gives back to the community by offering an educational lecture series, youth activities and shadowing opportunities for those interested in animal medicine.

Soares has been published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA), and has served as a lecturer for multiple veterinary conferences.

“The members of the AAHA Board of Directors have an over 80-year history of clear dedication to improving pet health and the veterinary profession. Dr. Soares will be instrumental in guiding us as we continue to promote the value of AAHA-accredited veterinary hospitals like Macungie Animal Hospital,” Cavanaugh added.

The American Animal Hospital Association is the only organization that accredits companion animal practices throughout the United States and Canada according to high standards of veterinary care. AAHA-accredited hospitals are recognized among the finest in the industry, and are consistently at the forefront of advanced veterinary medicine. Pet owners look for AAHA-accredited hospitals because they value their pet’s health and trust the consistent, expert care provided by the entire health care team.

The Board of Directors is responsible for providing strategic vision for AAHA in order to promote the growth and betterment of veterinary medicine.

Soares’ presidential term will begin April 3, 2016 during the AAHA Austin 2016 Yearly Conference.