Dr. Kathy Simmons has taken the reins as Chief Veterinarian for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. Simmons practiced veterinary medicine for 27 years, spent one year as a policy fellow on Capitol Hill for the American Association for the Advancement of Science and the American Veterinary Medical Association and has an active role managing her family’s farm. At NCBA – Simmons will focus on animal care and health regulatory issues domestically and internationally. She says her new role will allow her to bring together her practical veterinary and policy experiences with her vast knowledge of the U.S. beef cattle industry.

Simmons says cattlemen and women must have the ability to work with their veterinarians to implement science-based, comprehensive herd health plans and provide the utmost care for their animals. She says regulations and policies that affect animal health shouldn’t stifle that ability. Simmons intends to use her experience to ensure cattle producers have all the cattle health resources and tools they need. She will also maintain an active role on her family’s farm.