Thomas Colville, professor of animal and range science, retired Jan. 4 after 35 years of service to North Dakota State University.
Colville joined NDSU in 1976 and was charged with developing the NDSU veterinary technology program. He oversaw the growth of the program into what has become one of the most visible four-year veterinary technology degree programs in the country.
Colville taught 11 different courses while at NDSU. Most recently his courses included Anatomy and Physiology of Domestic Animals, Fundamentals of Veterinary Radiography, Small Animal Disease and Veterinary Surgical Nursing Technique.
He received the Faculty Performance Award from the vice president for academic affairs in 1997, College of Agriculture Certificate of Commendation for Excellence in Teaching in 1990 and Alpha Zeta Outstanding Educator in Agriculture in 1990 and 1987.
Colville has been active in a number of professional organizations; department, college and university committees; and has published numerous journal articles, newsletters, books and book chapters; and developed veterinary software.
Colville earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota in 1969 and a doctorate of veterinary medicine in 1971. In addition, he earned his master’s degree in aquatic veterinary studies from the University of Stirling, Scotland, in 1981 while on sabbatical there.