Shelley Duke, owner and manager of Rallywood Farm in Middleburg, Va., has been named the first recipient of the Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center's Distinguished Service Award. The accolade was established to recognize individuals who have generously and tirelessly provided leadership and expertise to help the equine medical center attain a higher level of achievement in service, teaching and research. The award was presented during a Sept. 13 meeting of the center's council in recognition of Duke's extraordinary dedication and exemplary volunteer service.

"Shelley is a friend, advocate, and leader for the equine medical center," said Dr. Nat White, Jean Ellen Shehan Professor and Director. "Her enthusiasm, tremendous efforts and exceptionally high standards have contributed greatly to the hospital's transformation into a premier equine healthcare and teaching facility, and this commendation is richly deserved."

Duke, a member of the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors, has spent more than 20 years working towards the betterment of equine healthcare and veterinary programs at the university. She has served as chair of the center's council since 1999 and is credited with establishing the hospital's highly successful volunteer program.

"Growth is a dynamic experience when the result is being able to see and feel the fruits of one's efforts," said Duke. "I feel proud to represent the" [text cuts off]