Tennessee Names New State Veterinarian

NASHVILLE –Tennessee Department of Agriculture Commissioner Ken Givens today announced the promotion of Dr. Charles Hatcher to the position of state veterinarian. The state veterinarian is charged with protecting and monitoring animal health in Tennessee.

“We’re excited to have Dr. Hatcher step into this new role as state veterinarian,” said Givens. “His knowledge and experience will be a continued asset to the agency.”

Hatcher graduated from University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine in 1984. After practicing in Russellville, Ky. for 10 years, he returned home to the family farm in 1993 and established a mixed animal veterinary practice and reopened the dairy. Hatcher has also served as president of the American Association of Bovine Practitioners. His areas of expertise include dairy and beef production medicine, reproduction and nutrition.

Hatcher has worked for TDA for more than five years as a staff veterinarian. He was responsible for the Tennessee livestock premises registration program, disease monitoring activities for sheep and cattle and more recently has supervised the statewide team of animal health technicians.

As state veterinarian, Hatcher is responsible for certification and enforcement of animal health standards required for interstate and international commerce of livestock and livestock products. He also works with federal animal health officials in accrediting Tennessee's approximately 1,000 practicing private veterinarians.

“Animal health is closely tied to public health and vital to the state’s agricultural economy. I look forward to working with producers and our partners to continue the level of animal health service and protection that Tennessee is known for.” said Hatcher. “I’m pleased to work with a dedicated team of animal health professionals, including assistant state veterinarian Philip Gordon, who tirelessly serve the citizens of Tennessee each day.”

Hatcher succeeds Dr. Ron Wilson, who passed away last year. Wilson worked for the department for more than 25 years and served as state veterinarian for more than eight years. He was instrumental in helping to expand animal disease diagnostic services statewide.

“It will be a difficult task to fill Dr. Wilson’s shoes,” said Hatcher. “He was an exceptional veterinarian and served the state for many years and I hope to build upon his legacy.”

For more information on TDA, visit www.TN.gov/agriculture.