History of the Companion Animal Program
2026
Dr. Maria de Godoy has received the Campus Award for Excellence in Graduate and Professional Teaching from the Office of the Provost, University of Illinois
This award are honored for sustained excellence and innovation in graduate or professional teaching and their contributions to graduate or professional learning beyond classroom instruction.
I-PETS was founded in 2026 by Dr. Oba in the Department of Animal Sciences at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
- The program was created to serve companion animals, their owners, and professionals in the animal care and pet food industries through science-based education and outreach.
- I-PETS brings together faculty expertise, students, and collaborators to translate research into practical, accessible resources that improve everyday animal health and welfare.
- Through workshops, webinars, community engagement, and online educational tools, the program connects science with real-world application across Illinois and beyond.
- The program is committed to addressing current challenges in companion animal health, nutrition, and welfare. These principles guide I PETS’s educational initiatives, industry partnerships, and collaborations within and outside the Department of Animal Sciences.
Dr. Patrícia Massae Oba was hired as a Clinical Assistant Professor of Companion Animal Nutrition in the Department of Animal Sciences
Extension Areas:
- Providing practical feeding guidance and improving understanding of pet food labels
- Obesity prevention strategies and body condition scoring education
- Gastrointestinal, oral, and skin health management in companion animals
- Nutritional product development and functional ingredient applications
- Strengthening the human–animal bond through outreach and education
Teaching:
- Companion Animal Nutrition (ANSC 422)
- Advanced Companion Animal Nutrition (ANSC 526)
- Animal Microbiome Data Interpretation (NUTR 510/ ANSC 525)
2025
ANSC 398: A Professional and Cultural Immersion in Animal and Veterinary Sciences in Brazil
ANSC 398 returned for a second time, again in partnership with the Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), offering an expanded immersive experience. Students participated in advanced clinical rotations, interdisciplinary research, and field-based learning, further developing technical skills and global perspectives while collaborating closely with UFPR instructors and students.
Dr. Kelly Swanson received the Henry L. Bolley Academic Achievement Award, North Dakota State University
The award recognizes the achievements of alumni who work in education as teachers, researchers and/or administrators.
Dr. Kelly Swanson was named an Excellence in Nutrition Fellow of the American Society for Nutrition
The award recognizes active leaders who have demonstrated sustained membership in the American Society for Nutrition and who have made exceptional impacts through their work in nutrition research and/or translation.
Dr. Maria de Godoy has received several distinguished teaching awards, including the G.R. Carlisle Award for Excellence in Extension Teaching from the Department of Animal Sciences, College of ACES, and the Paul A. Funk Senior College Faculty Award for Excellence in Teaching from the College of ACES.
Sara served as co-leader for the New Zealand Study Abroad Program: Avian Care and Conservation
2014 – 2025
Dr. Maria de Godoy was recognized on the University of Illinois List of Teachers Ranked as Excellent by Their Students for her instruction in the following courses:
- ANSC 422 – Companion Animal Nutrition (Spring 2014, 2016, 2018; Fall 2018)
- ANSC 424 – Pet Food and Feed Manufacturing (Spring 2017; Fall 2018, Fall 2024)
- ANSC 526 – Advanced Companion Animal Nutrition (Fall 2016; Spring 2019, 2021–2024)
- ANSC 590 – Animal Science Seminar – Nutrition (Spring 2017)
- ANSC 499 – Pet Food and Feed Regulation (Spring 2024)
- ANSC 100 – Introduction to Animal Sciences (Fall 2024, Spring 2025)
2007 – 2024
Dr. Kelly Swanson was recognized on the University of Illinois List of Teachers Ranked as Excellent by Their Students for her instruction in the following courses:
- ANSC 422 – Companion Animal Nutrition (on campus spring of 2007-2018 and fall of 2018-2020 and 2023; online fall of 2019-2024)
- ANSC 523 – Techniques in Animal Nutrition (on campus fall of 2010)
- ANSC 526 – Advanced Companion Animal Nutrition (on campus fall of 2016 and spring of 2019, 2021, and 2024; online fall of 2020 and spring of 2022 and 2024)
- ANSC 590 – Animal Sciences Seminar (on campus spring of 2024)
- NUTR 510 – Gastrointestinal Fermentation and Dietary Fiber (on campus fall of 2010, 2013, 2016, and 2019)
- VM 604 – Nutrition module of Structure and Function III (on campus spring of 2012)
2024
Dr. Maria de Godoy received the Paul A. Funk Award, College of ACES, Runge Faculty Distinguished Achievement Award
Dr. Kelly Swanson received the Paul A. Funk Recognition Award, College of ACES (UofI)
The Paul A. Funk Recognition Award is presented to faculty and academic professionals for outstanding achievement and major contributions to the betterment of agriculture, natural resources, and human systems.
Dr. Kelly Swanson received the Nutritional Sciences Graduate Student Association Faculty Award (UofI)
Award given to a faculty member for their outstanding contributions, support, and encouragement to Nutritional Sciences graduate students.
Sara served as co-leader for the New Zealand Study Abroad Program: Avian Care and Conservation
2023
ANSC 398: A Professional and Cultural Immersion in Animal and Veterinary Sciences in Brazil
ANSC 398 marked the first opportunity for our students to study abroad in Brazil, partnering with the Federal University of Paraná (UFPR) in Curitiba. Students gained hands-on experience in veterinary medicine, wildlife and avian conservation, and aquaculture, while engaging in cross-cultural learning with UFPR faculty and peers.
Dr. Swanson was appointed Director of the Division of Nutritional Sciences.
2022
Dr. Patrícia Massae Oba was hired as a Research Assistant Professor of Companion Animal Nutrition in the Department of Animal Sciences
Research Areas:
- Functional ingredients
- Novel protein/ protein quality
- Obesity/ Weight management
- Oral health
- Nutritional effects on microbiome
- Nutrient digestibility/ diet quality
Teaching:
- ACES Faculty-Led Program: A Professional and Cultural Immersion in Animal and Veterinary Sciences in Brazil (ANSC 398)
- Companion Animal Nutrition (ANSC 422)
- Pet Food and Feed Manufacturing (ANSC 424)
- Principles of Pet Food Formulation (ANSC 499)
- Microbiome in Companion Animals (ANSC 525/ NUTR 510)
- Manufacturing Pelleted Feed (ANSC 525/ NUTR 510)
- Advanced Companion Animal Nutrition (ANSC 526)
- Non-Ruminant Nutrition (ANSC 590
2021
Dr. Maria de Godoy received the Early Career Achievement Award, National Award from the American Society of Animal Science
This award celebrates an individual who has demonstrated exceptional achievement and promise in advancing animal science.
Sara was promoted to Senior Instructor
Dr. Maria de Godoy has been honored with multiple awards, including the Paul A. Funk Faculty Award for Excellence in Teaching from the College of ACES, the Early Career Achievement Award from the American Society of Animal Science, and the Distinguished Promotion Award from the Office of the Provost at the University of Illinois.
Dr. Maria de Godoy was named a Feed Technology Center Fellow, Dept. of Animal Sciences, College of ACES
Sarah received the Campus Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching Award for Specialized Faculty.
2020
Dr. Maria de Godoy received the Corbin Award in Companion Animal Biology, National Award, American Society of Animal Science; The award honors an established animal scientist who has made significant contributions in companion animal nutrition or biology through research or teaching
Dr. Kelly Swanson received the College of ACES Senior Faculty Award for Excellence in Research (UofI); The Faculty Award for Excellence recognizes outstanding professional achievement and demonstrated excellence in research.
Sarah received the College of ACES Specialized Faculty Teaching Award.
2019
Dr. Maria de Godoy and Dr. Patrícia Massae Oba participated in the AAVN–ESCVN Early Career Researcher Workshop for Animal Nutritionists
Selected through a highly competitive international process recognizing emerging leaders in animal nutrition and science. Participants were chosen based on academic achievement, research potential, and professional promise. An invitation-only program held in Asheville, North Carolina.
Dr. Maria de Godoy received the NACTA Teacher Award of Merit
Sarah Albert received the North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture (NACTA) Educator Award and served as co-leader of the New Zealand Study Abroad Program: Avian Care and Conservation. She also led the domestic Companion Animal Spring Break Trip to explore the variety of companion animal careers for undergraduate students.
2018
Non-thesis Master’s Degree in Companion Animal Nutrition was created.
- Opportunity to broaden their education and training; expected degree completion in one academic year.
- Students will complete an Independent Study to apply scientific methods and communication skills and will have the opportunity to attend conferences related to companion animal nutrition and the pet food industry.
Sarah served as leader for the Costa Rica Study Abroad Program: VIDA Spay/Neuter Campaigns and led the domestic Companion Animal Spring Break Trip to explore the variety of companion animal careers for undergraduate students.
Dr. Kelly Swanson received the University Scholar Award (UofI)
Being the highest award given on campus, the University Scholars Program recognizes outstanding members of the faculty.
2017
Dr. Fahey retires from managing the labs and analytical services, which are now supervised by Drs. de Godoy and Swanson.
Dr. Maria de Godoy received the JG and AM Smith Teaching Award for Teaching Excellence, Dept. of Animal Sciences, College of ACES.
Sarah served as leader for the Costa Rica Study Abroad Program: VIDA Spay/Neuter Campaigns and led the domestic Companion Animal Spring Break Trip to explore the variety of companion animal careers for undergraduate students.
Dr. Kelly Swanson was selected to be The Kraft Heinz Company Endowed Professor in Human Nutrition, Division of Nutritional Sciences
2016
Sarah served as leader for the Costa Rica Study Abroad Program: VIDA Spay/Neuter Campaigns and led the domestic Companion Animal Spring Break Trip to explore the variety of companion animal careers for undergraduate students.
2015
Dr. Maria de Godoy was hired as Assistant Professor of Companion Animal and Comparative Nutrition in the Department of Animal Sciences.
Research Areas:
- Ingredient and pet food evaluation
- Pet food technology, food quality, and safety
- Therapeutic nutrition
Teaching:
- Experiential Learning (ANSC 398)
- Companion Animal Nutrition (ANSC 422)
- Pet Food and Feed Manufacturing (ANSC 424)
- Principles of Pet Food Formulation (ANSC 499)
- Advanced Companion Animal Nutrition (ANSC 526)
Sara led the domestic Companion Animal Spring Break Trip to explore the variety of companion animal careers for undergraduate students.
2014
Dr. Kelly Swanosn was promoted to Professor
Sara led the domestic Companion Animal Spring Break Trip to explore the variety of companion animal careers for undergraduate students.
2013
Establishment of the Dr. George Fahey Appreciation Club
This fund was formed to recognize the contributions of Dr. George C. Fahey, Jr. to companion animal science, to comparative animal nutrition, and to the American Society of Animal Science.
Sara led the domestic Companion Animal Spring Break Trip to explore the variety of companion animal careers for undergraduate students.
Dr. Kelly Swanson received the American Society of Animal Science Corbin Companion Animal Biology Award
The award honors an established animal scientist who has made significant contributions in companion animal nutrition or biology through research or teaching.
Sarah Albert joins the Department as a Teaching Associate in Companion Animal Biology and Humane Education, with focus in areas related to the role of companion animals in society, human-animal interactions, and companion animal biology and care.
Teaches:
- Companion Animals in Society (ANSC 250)
- Human Animal Interactions (ANSC 305)
- Experiential Learning (ANSC 398): offers an opportunity to participate in travel experiences that include short field study trips during spring break and internships.
- Exotic Animals (ANSC 499; seminar series)
2011
Dr. Kelly Swanson received the College of ACES Faculty Award for Excellence in Research (UofI)
The Faculty Award for Excellence recognizes outstanding professional achievement and demonstrated excellence in research.
2009
Dr. Kelly Swanosn was promoted to Associate Professor
2010
Dr. Fahey retires but maintains a research program; forms a consulting business emphasizing pet animal nutrition.
2007
Dr. Corbin passes away on March 1, 2007.
2005
Dr. Amy Fischer-Brown joined the Department as a Teaching Associate and Extension Specialist in Companion Animal Biology and Humane Education.
This is the University’s first companion animal-related Extension appointment.
Teaches:
- Companion Animal Management (ANSC 307)
- Companion Animal Policy (ANSC 370)
- Experiential Learning (ANSC 398): offers an opportunity to participate in the Champaign County Humane Society internship program.
- Animal Shelter Management (ANSC 407)
2004
Dr. Kelly Swanson was appointed Assistant Professor of Comparative Nutrition in the Department of Animal Sciences and became a member of the Division of Nutritional Sciences at UofI.
Research Areas:
- Macronutrient metabolism
- Intestinal health
- Appetite & obesity
- Nutrigenomics & metabolomics
- Nutritional effects on microbiome
Teaching:
- Companion Animal Nutrition (ANSC 422)
- Advanced Companion Animal Nutrition (ANSC 526)
2000
ACES Short-Term Investment Capital for Instruction allows for continued expansion of the companion animal program with the addition of Teaching Associate Susan Helminck.
Course offerings:
- Humane Education with Companion Animals (ANSC 215) established.
- Humane Education Seminar presented annually beginning in 1999.
1990
Linda Case was hired as a lecturer to lead the companion animal undergraduate teaching program.
Teaches:
- Human-Companion Animal Interactions (ANSC 205)
- Companion Animal Biology and Care (ANSC 207)
- Summer Internships (ANSC 293)
- Companion Animal Nutrition (ANSC 322)
1986
Drs. Neal Merchen and George Fahey restart the effort in companion animal nutrition research.
- Animal care facility for dogs and cats in Edward R. Madigan Laboratory (ERML) established.
- Companion, Recreational, and Laboratory Animal Science option added back to undergraduate curriculum.
- Dr. Neal Merchen organizes and teaches Companion Animal Nutrition (ANSC 322).
1984
Dr. Gail Czarnecki-Maulden continues the program upon Dr. Corbin’s retirement.
- Merger of Department of Animal Science and Department of Dairy Science into the Department of Animal Sciences in 1985 – abolishment of the companion animal undergraduate option.
- New animal care guidelines by the federal government necessitate new animal facilities.
- Lack of funds prevents construction and Dr. CzarneckiMaulden departs for Friskies, St. Joseph, MO.
1976
Dr. George Fahey is hired as Assistant Professor in the area of Nutritional Biochemistry in the Department of Animal Science, begins a research collaboration with Dr. Corbin.
- Four students receive M.S. degrees with an emphasis in companion animal nutrition.
1974
Dr. D. E. Becker hires Dr. Jim Corbin from Ralston Purina to establish the first companion animal biology program in the nation in a Department of Animal Sciences.
- Companion Animal Management (ANSC 207) established. Dr. Jim Corbin
- Biennial Field Trip (ANSC 299) begins.
- Companion Animal Science Option included in the undergraduate curriculum.
- Kennel and cattery built on the South Farms for research.
- Collaborative research conducted with other faculty inside and outside the department.