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Candace Croney
Associate Vice Provost, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging, Professor, Director, Center for Animal Welfare Science at Purdue University
Professional Background
Candace Croney is a distinguished applied animal behavior and welfare scientist who has dedicated her career to enhancing the quality of life for both agricultural and companion animals. Through her innovative research and commitment to the field, she has established herself as a leader in animal welfare science, focusing on the interplay between animal cognition, public perceptions, and ethical considerations in animal care. With a keen interest in understanding how to meet the needs of animals more effectively, Candace has been instrumental in influencing practices and policies that promote humane treatment and welfare standards.
In her early career, Candace gained recognition for groundbreaking research that revealed the cognitive capabilities of pigs, demonstrating that they could learn to navigate computerized tasks. This pioneering work not only contributed to the scientific understanding of animal cognition but also positively impacted animal husbandry practices through increased awareness of the cognitive needs of pigs. Her research has always emphasized the importance of rigorous science merged with ethical considerations, allowing stakeholders to make informed decisions that benefit animal welfare.
Candace's most notable achievement recently includes the development of a national certification program known as Canine Care Certified. This program is designed to enhance the welfare standards of breeding dogs across the United States, demonstrating her commitment to advancing animal care and welfare through practical, actionable initiatives. By establishing this voluntary certification program, she has created a framework for breeders to adhere to higher standards of care, ensuring healthier and happier lives for the dogs involved.
In addition to her research endeavors, Candace has held various academic and administrative positions, including serving as the Associate Vice Provost for Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging at Purdue University. In this role, she worked vigorously to promote equitable access within the field of animal welfare science, advocating for inclusivity among those engaged in animal studies and ensuring that diverse perspectives are represented. Candace has also served as an Associate Professor at The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine and held academic roles at Oregon State University, helping to shape the next generation of animal welfare scientists.
Education and Achievements
Candace Croney's academic journey is rooted in deep expertise in animal sciences, having attained her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Master of Science (MS) degrees in Animal Sciences from Penn State University. Her foundational Bachelor's degree in Animal Sciences from Rutgers University provided the initial framework for her knowledge and passion for animal welfare. Throughout her educational pursuits, Candace has maintained a rigorous focus on applying scientific principles to solve complex issues pertaining to animal behavior and welfare, a commitment that continues to influence her ongoing research and advocacy work.
Candace is best known for her ability to conduct candid, objective analyses of socially contentious animal issues. By engaging in moral deliberation, she adeptly merges scientific research and ethical considerations, evaluating the implications of animal care practices, policies, and outreach communications. Her insights are invaluable for industry stakeholders looking to balance animal welfare with practical considerations, ensuring that animal care practices reflect a complete understanding of the animals' needs and societal expectations.
Achievements
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Pioneering Research on Pig Cognition: Candace's formative research helped redefine the understanding of animal cognition in pigs, illustrating their ability to learn and engage with their environment through complex tasks. This contribution has been influential in improving management practices within agriculture.
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Canine Care Certified: As the creator of this new voluntary national certification program, Candace has made significant strides in the breeding community, motivating breeders to adhere to high welfare standards and promote the well-being of breeding dogs.
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Leadership in Academic and Professional Circles: As former Associate Vice Provost at Purdue University and Associate Professor at The Ohio State University, Candace has played a pivotal role in advancing educational opportunities and research in animal welfare science.
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Equity and Inclusion Advocacy: Candace's work in promoting diversity, inclusion, and belonging within the discipline of animal welfare science has positioned her as a leading advocate for equitable access to education and research opportunities, thereby enriching the field with diverse perspectives and researchers.
Throughout her career, Candace Croney has exemplified what it means to be a leader in the realm of animal behavior and welfare. Her contributions span scientific research, educational leadership, and impactful policy initiatives, all designed to enhance the lives of animals and the communities that care for them. As an influential figure in animal welfare science, she stands as a beacon of knowledge and ethical responsibility, committed to the ongoing improvement of animal care practices across the globe.
