Dr. Nicholson grew up on a small dairy farm. His family raised a variety of animals including beef cattle, swine, sheep, and horses. He credits his parents for teaching him the importance and responsibility of caring for them. Shawn’s fondness of animals, love for rural living, and passion for learning made pursuing the veterinary profession a simple choice. Dr. Nicholson earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Animal Science from Iowa State University (ISU) in 1993. Shawn interrupted his formal education for one year to work for the ISU Animal Science ultrasound research group led by Drs. Gene Rouse and Doyle Wilson. He then attended the College of Veterinary Medicine at ISU and graduated in 1998.

Shawn met and married his wife Dr. Amy Crane while they were in veterinary school. They enjoy traveling, cooking, gardening, sampling fine beer and wine, and playing with their three beautiful children: Olivia, Kallin and Campbell. In his spare time, Shawn enjoys singing, hunting, fishing, and working projects at home.

Hometown: Alden, MN

Favorite thing about working at Stuart Veterinary Clinic:  At the Stuart-Anita Veterinary Clinics, Dr. Nicholson, has provided leadership for developing the beef carcass value and reproductive ultrasound services offered by the clinic. In addition, Dr. Nicholson feels passionate about veterinary medicine and welcomes any opportunity to provide service and educate people about the profession.