BAR HARBOR, MAINE — R. Michael Thomas, DVM, of Indianapolis, Ind., was awarded the 2011 NBVME Award by the National Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners.

Established in 1999, the award recognizes individuals who have made significant personal contributions to the national licensing examination program.

A native of Shelbyville, Ind., Thomas graduated from the College of Veterinary Medicine at Auburn University in 1968. In 1982, Thomas established the first Noah's Animal Hospital in Indiana. Today, he has built a group of veterinary hospitals in central Indiana, all dedicated to providing quality care for pets and their owners. Thomas served as president of the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) in 2001 and 2002 and has been active in numerous professional organizations, including the Companion Animal Parasite Council and several practice management groups.