Frank Král Award

Background: In January 1964, Drs. Frank Král, George Muller, James Conroy and Robert Schwartzman met in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to discuss the possibility of establishing an organization dedicated to the practice of veterinary dermatology. 

The outcome of the meeting was the founding of the American Academy of Veterinary Dermatology (AAVD) with Dr. Král assuming the first presidency. Dr. Král was elected as the first AAVD Life Member in 1971. He also received the first AAVD Dermatology Achievement Award for outstanding contributions to veterinary and comparative dermatology, given at the Dermatology and Allergy session of the American Veterinary Medical Association meeting in 1973. 

Unfortunately, the achievement award was not continued. The AAVD Board re-established the annual achievement award in veterinary dermatology in 2012 and the award is named in honor of Dr. Král.

Purpose: The Frank Král Award for Achievements in Veterinary Dermatology provides an avenue for recognition of outstanding achievements and dedicated service to the veterinary profession and specialty of veterinary dermatology by current members of the American Academy of Veterinary Dermatology (AAVD).

Eligibility:
1. Current members of the AAVD are eligible.
2. Except for rare and exceptional circumstances, a period of at least fifteen (15) years must elapse after receipt of the veterinary degree before an individual becomes eligible.
3. Individuals are not eligible while they are serving as active members of the AAVD Board or as members of the Selection Committee for this award.
4. Previous Frank Král Award winners are not eligible.

Selection Criteria:
1. Having an outstanding career in veterinary medicine and the specialty of veterinary dermatology with national and international recognition for one's contributions. Selection is based on the life career of the nominee rather than on a single activity or incident.
2. Sustained (15 or more years) service as a veterinarian in such activities as clinical medical practice, instruction, research and/or public service.
3. Production of major published works and/or development of significant diagnostic, therapeutic or control techniques and/or procedures.
4. Contributions to veterinary organizations.