Hoffman and Patterson Honored with Provost Teaching Excellence Awards

Story by Sophie Cela, VMBS Marketing & Communications

December 20, 2024

Two highly regarded faculty members at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (VMBS), Drs. Anton Hoffman and Adam Patterson, have been named recipients of the 2024-2025 Provost Academic Professional Track Faculty Teaching Excellence Award.

This prestigious recognition honors faculty who exemplify exceptional teaching practices, foster meaningful, student-centered learning experiences, and demonstrate an unwavering commitment to advancing education.

Hoffman, a clinical professor in the Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences (VIBS), and Patterson, a clinical professor in the Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences (VSCS), have set high standards in veterinary education through their innovative teaching approaches and dedicated mentorship, profoundly impacting their students and the broader community.

“Dr. Hoffman and Dr. Patterson exemplify the teaching excellence that Texas A&M and the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences are known for,” said Dr. John R. August, the Carl B. King Dean of Veterinary Medicine. “I am proud to see their dedication and innovation recognized at the university level.”

Dr. Anton Hoffman

As the course coordinator for Small Animal Anatomy since 1993, Hoffman has devoted over 30 years to enhancing veterinary anatomy education.

“Dr. Hoffman’s approach is rooted in a deep understanding of how to help his students excel,” his nominator said. “His ability to personalize learning and adapt to challenges — such as developing a comprehensive series of dissection videos during the COVID-19 pandemic — reflects his unwavering commitment to student success and creating impactful educational experiences.”

Known for his personalized teaching style, Hoffman employs diverse learning methods, including anatomical models, detailed diagrams, and engaging review sessions. His dedication to his students extends beyond the classroom.

“Dr. Hoffman creates an environment where students feel supported and empowered to learn,” one of Hoffman’s students said. “He ensures we have every tool needed to succeed and grow as future veterinarians.”

Hoffman is also known for his meticulous course preparation and collaborative spirit.

“It has been a privilege to teach alongside someone so passionate about helping others excel,” one colleague said. “His attention to detail, innovative teaching strategies, and dedication to refining course material have benefited both students and faculty, and demonstrate his commitment to education.”

Dr. Adam Patterson

Patterson, who serves as assistant VSCS department head for professional development and mentoring as well as the director of the dermatology residency program, has also left an indelible mark on veterinary education. Since reestablishing the Dermatology Service in 2009, Patterson has transformed the curriculum through case-based learning, small-group discussions, and advanced diagnostic techniques.

“Dr. Patterson has a gift for simplifying complex dermatological cases and equipping students with the skills they need to succeed in practice,” one nominator said. “His leadership has enriched our curriculum and elevated the standards of veterinary dermatology across the country. His introduction of national residency benchmarks and the transition to digital certification platforms during the pandemic reflect his forward-thinking approach.”

Patterson’s teaching emphasizes hands-on experience, critical thinking, and evidence-based decision-making. He mentors students, residents, and interns, guiding them through challenging dermatological cases while fostering independence.

“Dr. Patterson’s teaching goes beyond technical skills; he instills the ability to think critically and approach problems with confidence,” one of Patterson’s former students said. “His mentorship has been instrumental in shaping my career.”

Patterson strives to help students develop a logical, efficient approach to problem solving.

“Dr. Patterson has the formidable task of helping students integrate knowledge from previous courses and prioritize case information into an organized format,” another nominator said. “He routinely allows students to provide their input first when discussing cases, either acknowledging their accurate responses or guiding them toward a more appropriate one. By the end of just one week, students understand the processes they must use to succeed, not only in the course but throughout their veterinary careers.”

Hoffman and Patterson are among 10 Texas A&M faculty members honored with the 2024-2025 Provost Academic Professional Track Faculty Teaching Excellence Award. This distinguished recognition, supported by the generosity of the Marie M. and James H. Galloway Foundation, includes a $5,000 stipend to advance teaching initiatives and projects that enhance student learning. Recipients hold this award title for life.

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For more information about the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, please visit our website at vetmed.tamu.edu or join us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Contact Information: Jennifer Gauntt, Director of VMBS Communications, Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, jgauntt@cvm.tamu.edu, 979-862-4216

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