Dr. Karen Schwean-Lardner Honored with Farm Animal Welfare Leadership Award
Dr. Karen Schwean-Lardner, a distinguished academic from the University of Saskatchewan, has recently been awarded the prestigious Farm Animal Welfare Leadership Award by Animal Health Canada. This recognition highlights her significant contributions to poultry welfare, particularly in enhancing the well-being and productivity of commercial poultry systems globally.
Transforming Poultry Welfare through Research
Dr. Schwean-Lardner’s research has made a profound impact on poultry management practices, benefiting billions of meat-type birds. Her innovative studies have influenced the welfare of an estimated 30 billion broilers annually, establishing new standards for the industry. Through her work, she has not only advanced scientific understanding but has also provided practical applications that enhance animal care.
Avoice in the Industry
In addition to her renowned research, Dr. Schwean-Lardner has served as an advisor to leading food companies and has played a pivotal role in developing national Codes of Practice related to the care and handling of farm animals. Her leadership extends to her term as president of the Poultry Science Association, where she has influenced the trajectory of poultry science and animal welfare practices.
Commitment to Education
Dr. Schwean-Lardner’s commitment to education and mentorship is evident in her prolific contributions to academic literature, which include over 80 peer-reviewed publications and more than 100 presentations at industry events. Her dedication to nurturing future leaders is reflected in the many graduate and undergraduate students she has mentored, many of whom are now making their own impacts in the field of animal welfare.
Recognition and Future Endeavors
Further underscoring her excellence is the recent acknowledgment with the 2025 North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture Educator Award. This accolade reflects her unwavering dedication to both scientific progress and effective teaching methodologies. The Farm Animal Welfare Leadership Award was presented to her during the annual forum of Animal Health Canada, an event that gathers leaders across the country to discuss initiatives aimed at enhancing animal health and welfare standards. This recognition not only honors her accomplishments but also emphasizes the important role she plays in advancing animal care practices and fostering trust in Canadian agriculture and beyond.
With her ongoing commitment to animal welfare and education, Dr. Schwean-Lardner continues to inspire positive changes in the poultry industry and the broader agricultural community.
