Robert Curtis
Prince Edward Island Inductee, 2021
1931 - 2019
Dr. Robert Curtis demonstrated a passion for animals early on. Born in 1931, he grew on the family farm in Dufferin County, Ontario. With a particular interest in beef cattle Dr. Curtis completed numerous 4-H cattle projects, participated in livestock judging events, and was the first president of South Dufferin Junior Farmers.
From 1950-1954 Dr. Curtis operated his own beef farm, and for the next two years managed Aberfeldy Farms in Milton, Ontario. From 1956-1969, he worked in the Department of Animal Science at the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) and the Ontario Department of Agriculture. In 1961, Dr. Curtis graduated from OVC as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, with a Gold Medal First in Class. Upon graduation, he began a 24-year career as a Veterinarian and Professor in the Department of Clinical Studies at OVC. During this time he earned a Masters of Science in 1968.
In 1985, Dr. Curtis moved east to become a founding member of the Atlantic Veterinary College (AVC) at the University of Prince Edward Island. For the next 11 years, Dr. Curtis’ extensive knowledge and resolute commitment to animal care would shape the programming and training offered at the college. He was Founding Chair of the Department of Health Management and the Founding Director of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital from 1985-1990, followed by six years as a professor and senior Clinician in Farm Services. His dedication to high quality care set the stage for a new generation of veterinarians to receive training in Atlantic Canada, and ensured that every farm in the region received top quality veterinary care.
Dr. Curtis’ passion for animals in general, and beef cattle in particular, made him the ideal candidate to assemble a team of educators committed to the health and well-being of farm animals. As he recruited farms for services, he built valuable relationships with local farmers. He always had time to listen to people, and his upstanding reputation was built on the quality interactions he had with farmers.
During his career Dr. Curtis authored or co-authored 142 peer-reviewed scientific papers. He was a well-known speaker at conferences across the globe and received seven awards for teaching excellence. In 1986 he was recognized by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association with the Shering Award for his significant contributions to Large Animal Medicine and Surgery. He also received the Lieutenant Governors Award in Animal Care and Veterinary Medicine in 2006 for his contributions to animal health and welfare in Atlantic Canada.
Dr. Curtis knew that supporting the industry and engaging younger generations in agriculture was critical. He provided countless hours of continuing education to the veterinary community, and for many years sponsored awards for agricultural events and programs. His outstanding impact on animal health and veterinary practices across the region will be his legacy.
Nominated by the Atlantic Veterinary College for his leadership in the veterinary community and his commitment to animal care, Dr. Curtis is a worthy inductee into the Atlantic Agricultural Hall of Fame.