The NDSU-VDL advisory council consists of approximately 15 external members and comprises veterinarians and representatives from a diverse group of stakeholders across the state. The purpose of the council is to provide constructive criticism on laboratory services, offer strategic advice for laboratory planning, and assess the laboratory’s progress relating to ongoing projects and initiatives. The major goals of the council are to provide external expertise and advice to aid the laboratory in carrying out its mission, improve laboratory services, and ensure the laboratory is responsive to the needs of the state’s veterinarians, animal producers, and owners.