An Albert Lea woman who is a swine veterinarian in Algona, Iowa, received national recognition earlier this month from the American Association of Swine Veterinarians.

Amber Stricker was recognized with the Young Swine Veterinarian of the Year Award during the association’s annual meeting March 4 in San Diego, Calif.

Stricker said receiving the award was “extremely humbling and a great honor.”

“I owe my successes to my family who continues to be incredibly supportive of me as I pursue my career in veterinary medicine as well as to those who have mentored me along the way,” she said.

The award is given to a member of the organization each year who demonstrates exemplary service and proficiency early in his or her career.

Stricker, a 2008 graduate of the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine, grew up on a farm near St. Ansgar, Iowa, where her family raised corn, soybeans, cattle and pigs.

She said she became interested in agriculture at an early age and excelled in 4-H and FFA, according to a news release. She had her own cow and calf herd and market hogs and showed them at the county and state fair.

She is a partner and practicing veterinarian at Suidae Health & Production, a swine-exclusive practice in Algona.

Stricker said she has always been interested in science and medicine.

She is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association and the Iowa Veterinary Association. She serves as a member of the Minnesota Pork Board research committee, among others.