AAHA Appoints Dr. Brady Beale as Chief Executive Officer

The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) has named Brady Beale, VMD, DACVO, as its next Chief Executive Officer, effective April 1, 2026. Dr. Beale succeeds interim CEO Guylaine Charette, DVM.
  • Dr. Beale currently serves as Associate Dean of Clinical Enterprise and Chief Medical Officer at the University of Pennsylvania’s Ryan Hospital.
  • She succeeds Dr. Guylaine Charette, who has served as interim CEO.
  • AAHA Board President Dr. Parva Bezrutczyk cited Dr. Beale’s leadership, clinical excellence, and commitment to advancing veterinary standards.
  • Dr. Beale’s background includes a residency at North Carolina State University and leadership roles at Penn Vet.
  • Her focus areas include team culture, operational optimization, and elevating care standards.

Full Story

The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) announced the appointment of Brady Beale, VMD, DACVO, as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective April 1, 2026. Dr. Beale will succeed Guylaine Charette, DVM, who has served as interim CEO.

“During my time at AAHA, I’ve been continually inspired by our dedicated team and passionate members,” said Dr. Charette. “Dr. Beale is joining us at a pivotal moment, and her unique blend of clinical expertise and operational leadership is exactly what AAHA needs to build on our momentum.”

Dr. Beale currently serves as Associate Dean of Clinical Enterprise, Hospital Director, and Chief Medical Officer at the University of Pennsylvania’s Matthew J. Ryan Hospital, where she oversees hospital operations and clinical strategy. Her leadership has emphasized team culture, safety, and continuous improvement in care delivery.

AAHA Board President Dr. Parva Bezrutczyk said, “Dr. Beale brings an extraordinary depth of experience, visionary leadership, and a genuine passion for supporting veterinary professionals. Her proven record at one of the nation’s premier veterinary institutions uniquely positions her to advance AAHA’s mission.”

A 2002 graduate of Penn Vet, Dr. Beale completed her internship in small animal medicine and surgery at Penn Vet and a residency in comparative ophthalmology at North Carolina State University, earning her diplomate status with the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists. After several years in private practice, she returned to Penn Vet in 2015, combining clinical ophthalmology with teaching communication skills to veterinary students.

Reflecting on her appointment, Dr. Beale said, “I am honored to lead AAHA into its next chapter. AAHA’s mission resonates deeply with me, and I look forward to learning from our staff, board, and membership about how we can preserve what makes AAHA invaluable while exploring new ways to serve the profession.”

Information sourced from the American Animal Hospital Association press release.