Carolyn (Hayes) Hammer, B.S., M.S., Ph.D., D.V.M.
Hometown: Algona, Iowa
Current Residence: Fargo, North Dakota
Carolyn (Hayes) Hammer, B.S., M.S., Ph.D., D.V.M. Hometown: Algona, Iowa Current Residence: Fargo, North Dakota |
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Background and Education
Carrie grew up in Algona, Iowa and graduated with a B.S. in Animal Science in 1996 from Iowa State University prior to starting her Masters degree in Nutritional Physiology. Following the completion of her Masters degree. she worked concurrently on a DVM and a PhD in Animal Physiology. She completed her DVM (graduating with distinction) in 2002 and her PhD was awarded in 2003. After graduation, Dr. Hammer worked for APC, Inc. as a technical service veterinarian where she provided technical advice and supervised research projects relating to companion animal, equine, and bovine health. She worked as a veterinary specialist for the Center for Food Security and Public Health at Iowa State University for 15 months prior to accepting her current position with North Dakota State. She and her husband Mike are the proud parents of a son, Logan.
Current Position
Carrie is currently the Director of Equine Studies at North Dakota State University.
Current Work Responsibilities
Carrie oversees all aspects relating to the Equine Studies program at NDSU – the program has three other full-time employees in addition to Carrie. She teaches two classes – Equine Production and Management, and Equine Nutrition and Physiology - co-teaches the Large Animal Veterinary Techniques class, and gives multiple guest lectures. In addition, she oversees all horse-related extension programming in the state, with the greatest focus currently on youth related programming. She currently has two graduate students, and has enjoyed developing an equine related research program at NDSU.
Describe your graduate program at Iowa State:
Carrie worked on projects relating to neonatal adaptation after birth and immunology; more specifically, the effects of obstetrical assistance during delivery on calf blood parameters, and acquisition of calf and foal passive immunity through natural and artificial means. As a graduate student, she served as a teaching assistant for Dairy Cattle Management (AnS 434), Independent Study in Zoo Animal Nutrition (AnS 490), Equine Science (AnS 216), and Managing Equine Behavior (AnS 316). Carrie was the primary instructor for Introduction to Equine Evaluation and Assistant Coach for the ISU Horse Judging Team. During her PhD program, she co-authored (with M.E. Ensminger) the textbook “Equine Science”. She assisted in conducting various 4-H activities during her graduate program as well. Because of her extensive involvement in the ISU undergraduate teaching program, she received the ISU Teaching Excellence Award in 2000.
In what ways has your degree from ISU impacted your prefessional and personal development?
My degrees from ISU were crucial in helping me prepare for my job here at NDSU. My job duties entail teaching research, and extension – most young graduates have experience in one or two of the areas, but rarely all three. I was fortunate to be able to tailor my experiences at ISU to develop a degree program that encompassed all those areas. This in turn made me a top candidate for the job, and also made my transition into this academic position much less stressful. Finally, the contacts I made while at ISU both as fellow students and as mentors, are still people I keep in contact with today. Not only have these people helped me to achieve my professional goals, they are also good friends.
What advice would you give to prospective graduate students considering Animal Science at Iowa State?
ISU has a great program and a wonderful reputation. Graduate school is often what you make of it – be sure to find a mentor that will listen to your career goals and will help you tailor a program that will enable you to find (and secure) your dream job.
Carrie during her PhD program, and on the job in North Dakota (circa 2006)