Message from the executive vice president

Professional Animal Scientist, Sep 2002 by Baumgardt, Bill

"What's in a name?" is a frequently asked question. There are many indicators that "ARPAS" has become a name that is recognized for excellence in serving animal agriculture and companion animals.

The ARPAS label is recognized more widely because it is more visible and also because of what ARPAS represents:

* Knowledge-as demonstrated by examination

* Keeping up to date-by CEU requirements

* Strong commitment to professional ethics-by the Code of Ethics and Review Process.

These cornerstones of ARPAS help individual Registry members become more valuable professionals and also spotlight Corporate Sponsors as companies who are committed to those principles.

ARPAS-registered individuals are encouraged to carry the ARPAS banner with pride. As individual members, you can use the appropriate identifier (PAS, RAS, or Board Diplomat status) behind your name on business cards, in articles you author for magazines, etc. Sponsors might choose to display a label such as "A Proud Corporate Sponsor of ARPAS" with their display booths at trade shows and conferences. Ribbons that can be attached to name badges are available at the ARPAS booth wherever the ARPAS booth is displayed, so please stop by the booth, pick up a ribbon, and wear it with pride.

Finally, you can help tell others about ARPAS. Refer them to the website (www.arpas.org) and point out the advantages of affiliation. There are several under-represented groups that provide additional growth opportunities for ARPAS. These include the pet industry, aquaculture, and laboratory animal professionals. Help keep ARPAS growing in service for the benefit of everyone!