Governor Bill Lee has appointed Dr. Carla Sommardahl, head of the Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, to the Tennessee Equine Health Advisory Commission. Sommardahl is a clinical professor and board-certified large animal internal medicine specialist with the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.
The commission examines the state of equine health in the state, emerging health concerns and other issues affecting the equine industry. Sommardahl’s appointment is effective immediately and continues through June 30, 2028.
“I am honored to serve on the Tennessee Equine Health Advisory Commission,” Sommardahl said. “Tennessee’s horses and the people who care for them are vital to communities and agriculture across our state. I look forward to working with fellow commission members, industry partners and state leaders to support practical, science-based approaches that protect and advance equine health.”
Sommardahl brings more than thirty years’ experience in equine clinical medicine, research and veterinary education to the commission. She joined the UT College of Veterinary Medicine after completing her large animal internship and residency at the college, where she also earned a doctorate in molecular genetics. She received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine and a bachelor’s degree in animal science from the University of Arkansas.
During her career at UT, Sommardahl has served as Equine Medicine Section Chief, Large Animal Medicine Residency Program Director, assistant department head and Faculty Director of the Veterinary Research and Education Center.
“Dr. Sommardahl’s clinical expertise, academic leadership, regulatory awareness, and long-standing commitment to animal health make her exceptionally well suited to contribute to this commission,” said Paul Plummer, dean of the veterinary college. “Her appointment reflects the important role the college plays in advancing the health and well-being of Tennessee’s equine community.”
Sommardahl lives in Blount County and remains actively engaged in agricultural life through her family’s cattle farm. Her perspective reflects both professional expertise and firsthand understanding of animal health issues impacting producers and the equine community statewide.
