Paws and profits: Cornell Richard P. Riney Canine Health Center names new director, and other updates

Mars Petcare has selected a new global executive with extensive experience in international operations and consumer goods. Meanwhile, the Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences has appointed a director to oversee continuing education (CE) initiatives for veterinary professionals. Additionally, the Cornell Richard P. Riney Canine Health Center has a new director with a background in surgical practice and minimally invasive techniques.

Marc Carena, global president, Mars Petcare

Earlier this year, Marc Carena was named global president of Mars Petcare. Carena joined Mars in 2022 as regional president of Mars Snacking Europe, Central Eurasia and International Travel Retail, overseeing operations across 55 markets. Before joining Mars, he was managing director for McDonald’s in Russia, leading more than 60,000 employees and turning it into the fastest-growing market in the company’s top 20. He also has experience in retail and fast-moving consumer goods through roles at Metro Group and Nestlé and serves as vice president of the European Food and Drink Association.

“I am proud to have the opportunity to lead this incredible business. We have the privilege of providing pets and pet owners with products, services, and innovative solutions that make their lives better and easier. With more than 100,000 passionate associates around the world and incredible brands, science, and health care businesses, I'm looking forward to leading the next phase of growth and continuing to deliver on our purpose: a better world for pets,” Carena said in a company news release.¹

Leslie Easterwood, DVM, MA, director, Office of Continuing Education, Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences

Leslie Easterwood, DVM, MA, began her role as director of the Office of Continuing Education at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences on January 1, 2026, while continuing as a clinical associate professor. Easterwood has experience in equine practice and organized veterinary medicine, including serving as past president of the Texas Equine Veterinary Association and in multiple roles with the American Association of Equine Practitioners Foundation. Most recently, she served as chair of the Foundation for the Horse, where she led a major fundraising initiative that expanded support for equine research and student scholarships. In her new role, Easterwood is working to expand CE offerings across small and large animal medicine and develop hands-on learning opportunities.

“We hope to expand not only the number of CE offerings—across both small and large animal medicine—but also the wet lab component,” Easterwood said in a Texas A&M news release.² “More veterinarians are seeking and expecting hands-on opportunities instead of the traditional lecture-only format.”

Nicole Buote, DVM, DACVS, director, Cornell Richard P. Riney Canine Health Center

Nicole Buote, DVM, DACVS, has been appointed director of the Cornell Richard P. Riney Canine Health Center (RCHC), following the planned retirement of Rory Todhunter, PhD, a professor of surgery in the Department of Clinical Sciences and inaugural director of the RCHC since July 2023. Buote, an associate professor of small animal surgery, joined Cornell in 2020 after 11 years in specialty private practice, where she founded the minimally invasive and interventional radiology service. Her earlier research primarily addressed complex soft tissue conditions, including advanced procedures for the biliary system, abdominal reconstruction, and intestinal surgery. Since joining Cornell, Buote has advanced minimally invasive and interventional radiology techniques for animals, incorporating tools such as surgical robotics. Additionally, she is an American College of Veterinary Surgeons founding fellow of minimally invasive surgery (soft tissue) and founder of the Association of Women Veterinary Surgeons.

“Recognition must be given to Drs Todhunter and David Lee [associate dean for external programs] for their amazing vision and leadership in launching the Riney Canine Health Center,” Buote said in a university release.³ “In just 3 years, the center has accomplished an extraordinary amount, including funding innovative research performed by Cornell's clinicians and scientists, solidifying relationships between Cornell and the dog-loving community, and creating a reliable web-based knowledge source. These achievements are a testament not only to their guidance but also to the dedication and tireless work of the entire Riney Canine Health Center staff that brings these programs to life every day with their commitment and energy.”

References

1. Mars names new global petcare president. News release. Mars, Incorporated. January 13, 2026. Accessed February 16, 2026. https://www.mars.com/news-and-stories/press-releases-statements/mars-names-new-global-petcare-president
2. Easterwood begins new leadership role with Texas A&M veterinary continuing education. News release. Texas A&M University. January 12, 2026. Accessed February 16, 2026. https://vetmed.tamu.edu/news/press-releases/easterwood-continuing-education/
3. Dr. Nicole Buote appointed next director of the Cornell Richard P. Riney Canine Health Center. News release. Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. January 12, 2026. Accessed February 16, 2026. https://www.vet.cornell.edu/about-us/news/20260112/dr-nicole-buote-appointed-next-director-cornell-richard-p-riney-canine-health-center