Board of Animal Health appoints new leader

The six-member Minnesota Board of Animal Health has named Dr. Brian Hoefs as its new executive director and state veterinarian. The Board selected Dr. Hoefs to succeed Dr. Marion Garcia, who served the agency until April of this year. Dr. Hoefs has been serving in the role as interim since April.

Dr. Hoefs graduated from the University of Wisconsin, River Falls with an undergraduate degree in Animal Science, Equine and Food Animal emphases, and earned his DVM from the University of Wisconsin, Madison. Dr. Hoefs has worked in a variety of veterinary positions including equine, mixed animal, and small animal practices as well as academia. Additionally, he has served as an animal humane officer and biosecurity specialist for a broiler company. Dr. Hoefs joined the Minnesota Board of Animal Health in 2019 where he previously oversaw swine, equine and livestock concentration points.

“After 25 years as a licensed veterinarian, I am still thrilled with all there is to learn and accomplish for animals in this profession,” said State Veterinarian, Dr. Brian Hoefs. “I look forward to expanding the relationships we have with our partner agencies, veterinarians, and Minnesotans to protect the health and wellbeing of our animals.”

Dr. Hoefs is the 11th executive director to hold the position in the Board’s 120-year history. Executive directors are appointed annually by the Board members unless a vacancy occurs, and the position needs to be filled mid-term. For details about other news and events at the Board of Animal Health, visit www.bah.state.mn.us.

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