Meet Jen
Hi, I’m Jen — a veterinarian, lifelong learner, and proud connector of people and ideas.
My path in veterinary medicine has been anything but linear. I started as a licensed veterinary technician, learning the heartbeat of practice from the treatment floor up. After earning my Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from The Ohio State University and a Master of Public Health from the University of Iowa, I worked as an associate veterinarian and now as a relief doctor focusing on surgery and dentistry. Those clinical roots keep me grounded in the realities of everyday practice.
Along the way, I discovered a passion for leadership and service within the profession. I served as President of the Kentucky Veterinary Medical Association (2018–19), helped shape national policy on the American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Veterinary Service, and spent two years as AVMA Vice President (2022–24), connecting with students and early-career veterinarians across the United States and beyond. In July 2025 I was elected AVMA President-Elect (2025–26) and will step into the presidency in July 2026.
Outside of my role with the AVMA, I’m Chief Veterinary Officer at Otto, where we’re building technology that helps veterinary teams focus on care, not clicks. I’m also a long-time facilitator with the Veterinary Leadership Institute, helping professionals develop healthy, resilient leadership skills.
Whether I’m suturing a patient, speaking at a conference, or sharing coffee with a colleague, my work centers on one belief: Our profession is at its best when we lead with connection, curiosity, and care.
What I Do
Clinical Care
Relief veterinarian with a focus on surgery and dentistry — staying hands-on keeps my leadership grounded in real-world practice.
Leadership & Advocacy
Representing veterinarians and teams through state and national associations, championing technician utilization, team wellbeing, and sustainable careers.
Technology & Innovation
As Chief Veterinary Officer at Otto, I work to create digital solutions that simplify workflows, enhance communication, and support the wellbeing of veterinary professionals.
Leadership Journey
Every chapter of my career has been about learning, leading, and lifting others.
From my technician days in a mixed-animal clinic to state leadership roles to national service within the AVMA, each step has reinforced the power of community and collaboration.
Participating in the Veterinary Leadership Institute taught me how intentional, values-based leadership can change lives — and that lesson guides every decision I make.
Now, as AVMA President-Elect, I’m honored to represent our profession’s diverse voices — from students and new graduates to practice owners, technicians, and every team member who keeps our clinics thriving.
The Work Ahead
Veterinary medicine is evolving — and that’s a good thing.
As we move forward, I’m focused on:
- Strengthening veterinary teams through better technician utilization and support.
- Championing technology that enhances, not replaces, human connection.
- Promoting wellbeing and belonging for everyone who serves animals.
- Collaborating across generations and practice types to build a sustainable, inclusive profession.
The heart of this work is simple: When we care for the people who care for animals, everything else gets better.
Pillars for the Future:
Veterinary medicine is evolving — and so are we. My work focuses on connecting teams, technology, and leadership so our profession thrives together — today and for the future.
All Things Team
Veterinary medicine has never been a solo sport. Every role — from client service to surgery — matters. When we collaborate and celebrate each other’s strengths, we elevate both care and culture.
Focus Areas:
Build trust and collaboration across entire teams.
Advocate for fair compensation and career growth.
Encourage leadership development at every stage.
All Things Technician
Veterinary technicians are the backbone of practice. They deserve recognition, title protection, and full use of their skills. When technicians thrive, the whole team thrives.
Focus Areas:
Support credentialing and title protection nationwide.
Promote practice models that fully utilize technician skills.
Expand mentorship and continuing education.
All Things Technology
Technology should serve people, not replace them. At Otto, I work to create digital solutions that simplify workflows, enhance communication, and support the wellbeing of veterinary professionals.
Focus Areas:
Ensure ethical and secure use of artificial intelligence and digital systems.
Reduce administrative burden and burnout.
Improve communication between teams and clients.
Wellbeing & Sustainability
A healthy profession starts with healthy people. Since co-founding Veterinarian Coaching in 2014, I’ve focused on resilience and balance for veterinary teams.
Focus Areas:
Normalize mental-health conversations.
Encourage sustainable schedules and compassionate leadership.
Foster community support over isolation.
Belonging & Engagement (DEI)
Inclusive leadership is strong leadership. Diverse perspectives lead to better solutions and more welcoming workplaces. Belonging isn’t a bonus — it’s essential for innovation and trust.
Focus Areas:
Expand access to leadership and mentorship programs.
Support diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
Create psychologically safe and respectful work environments.
Future of the Profession
The next decade will redefine our field. I believe in thoughtful evolution — listening to teams, embracing technology responsibly, and keeping people at the center of progress.
Focus Areas:
Shape policy that balances innovation and safety.
Strengthen education pipelines for veterinarians and technicians.
Keep humanity and empathy at the heart of change.
Pillars for the Future:
Veterinary medicine is evolving — and so are we. My work focuses on connecting teams, technology, and leadership so our profession thrives together — today and for the future.