Dr. Catherine A. Knupp, Executive Vice President and President, Research and Development at Zoetis, was honored with the Feather in Her Cap Award for her leadership and contributions to the animal health industry and her record of mentoring women and helping them advance their careers in animal health. 

The award, made for the first time by the newly-formed, non-profit Feather in Her Cap Association, was created to shine a light on the impressive accomplishments of talented women in the animal health industry and help encourage more women to enter and build careers in the sector. The award ceremony took place on February 5 at the Orlando Museum of Art in Orlando, Fla. 

Advancing Animal Health

In bestowing the award to Dr. Knupp, the Association praised Cathy as an innovative leader and ambassador for the animal health industry. Through her contributions to veterinary medicine, Zoetis and to the advancement of women in animal health, she has brought distinction to the industry, to herself, and the professionals who have had the privilege to work for her and alongside her. She is truly deserving of the Feather in Her Cap Award.    

Mentoring and Inspiring Others

Roxanne Lagano, Zoetis’ Chief Human Resources Officer, said, “Throughout her career, Cathy has been a champion for the advancement of science and innovation in animal health. Her leadership has helped elevate the stature of the animal health industry and appreciation of its contributions to society.  She has always recognized the need to mentor women scientists, helping them realize their potential, earn recognition for their work, and, in so doing, progress in their careers. She has made mentoring personal, implementing effective programs at Zoetis as well as serving as a mentor to many promising women. We at Zoetis are so proud of Cathy and glad to call her one of our own – and one of our best!”

In accepting the award, Dr. Knupp said, “I am honored and humbled to receive this award.  It is especially rewarding to be recognized by leaders in our industry for achievements that have helped advance animal health and raised the presence and voices of women, making the animal health industry more diverse and stronger for it.”

Dr. Knupp was one of four inaugural recipients of the Feather in Her Cap Award.  Other women honored were Kim Allen, President, Commercial Division, Henry Schein Health; Marie-Paul Lachaud, Head of Program Management, Europe at Aratana Therapeutics; and Joyce Lee, President, Bayer Animal Health, North America.  Some 23 accomplished women from 13 companies were nominated for the award.