PRESERVING LEGACY. EMBRACING GROWTH
The Florida Veterinary Medical Association (FVMA) proudly reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the Florida Association of Equine Practitioners (FAEP). The FAEP’s branding, identity and mission will remain unchanged, continuing to represent the highest standards in equine veterinary medicine. We deeply value the institutional knowledge and leadership of FAEP council members, whose experience will remain a guiding force during this transition and beyond.
At the direction of the FVMA Executive Board, all FVMA stakeholder groups — including committees, councils, industry partners and vendors— are undergoing a comprehensive operational review aimed at creating uniformity, transparency and cohesion across the association.
Key updates include:
- Unified policies and procedures: A standardized committee operations document is in development.
- Sunsetting of FAEP council constitution: Effective January 1, 2025.
- Clear governance: Defined roles, responsibilities, and timelines for all FVMA groups.
- Enhanced financial planning: More accurate, strategic budget forecasting.
INTRODUCTION: THE NEW FAEP COMMITTEE
To meet the evolving needs of equine practitioners, the FVMA is launching a new FAEP Committee that will spearhead vital initiatives while preserving FAEP’s legacy and expertise.
Committee focus areas:
- Development of online CE sessions and courses
- Planning of non-conference wet labs and symposia
- Strengthening committee and member engagement in:
- Power of 10
- Disaster preparedness
- Legislative advocacy
- Well-being
- Fiscal advisory
The FVMA’s vision for the FAEP is bold and collaborative, one that honors tradition while building a foundation for long-term growth and innovation. I am confident these changes will strengthen the FAEP and elevate the future of equine veterinary medicine in Florida. I am honored to be part of these changes.
About the Author
GERARDO J. DIAZ, FAEP Executive Board Representative
Dr. Gerardo J. Diaz completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Miami and received his DVM degree from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine. He began as a small animal veterinarian and more recently a mixed animal veterinarian serving his community in Miami for over 30 years. Dr. Diaz purchased Briarwood Animal Hospital in 1992 and more recently opened his own equine practice, Briarwood Equine Associates. He has been a pillar of strength for the South Florida Veterinary Medical Association as an active board member throughout his career, often recruiting and mentoring younger veterinarians on the importance of organized medicine and lobbying for the rights of veterinarians at both the local and state level. He is past-president of the Florida Veterinary Medical Association (FVMA), the South Florida Veterinary Medical Association, and the Dade County Veterinary Foundation. Dedicating a substantial portion of his career to upholding the veterinary profession, he has served on FVMA’s Board of Governors, Budget and Finance Committees, held the office of District Representative, and currently serves on the Legislative Affairs Committee as well as the Admissions Committee for the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine.