The Kind of Leader Veterinary Medicine Needs in 2025

The Kind of Leader Veterinary Medicine Needs in 2025

(Spoiler: It’s Not About Checking Boxes)

Veterinary medicine is evolving faster than ever before.

From advancements in AI and digital tools to shifting client expectations, changing team dynamics, and growing legislative complexity — the profession we love is in motion. And with change comes challenge… but also tremendous opportunity.

In a time like this, choosing the right kind of leadership isn’t just important — it’s essential.

We need more than tradition.
More than titles.
More than status quo.

We need a leader who can connect, adapt, listen, build, and — when necessary — disrupt. Here’s what I believe veterinary medicine needs in 2025 — and why I’m ready to meet that moment.

🤝 We Need a Connector

Our profession is full of brilliant people — but too often, those ideas stay siloed in specialty groups, state veterinary organizations, or individual clinics.

A connector brings people together across those divides. They listen across generations, practice types, and professional roles — and build bridges where others see gaps.

Where I’ve lived it:
As AVMA Vice President, I traveled to dozens of veterinary schools, hearing from students, faculty, and future leaders. I’ve been a technician, a relief vet, a medical director, and now serve in both state and national organizations. My path hasn’t been linear — it’s been woven with connection. And it’s made me better for it.

🚀 We Need an Innovator

Veterinary medicine can’t afford to lag behind. Whether it’s technology, team models, or how we deliver care, we need leaders who embrace what’s next while protecting what matters most and what’s working well.

Where I’ve lived it:
As Chief Veterinary Officer of a veterinary technology company, I’ve helped develop tools that support teams, reduce burnout, and improve patient care — all while keeping the human-animal bond and veterinary clinic at the center. I bring a perspective that blends clinical reality with future-focused thinking.

🧡 We Need a Team-Builder

No one thrives alone — and no one should have to. Leadership in this profession has to center on lifting others up and creating space for teams to succeed.

Where I’ve lived it:
I’ve led multi-site veterinary practices, coached professionals through tough transitions, and co-founded a company focused on supporting veterinary wellbeing. I believe the power of this profession lies in its people — and I’m here to help us work better, together.

👂 We Need a Listener

Leadership starts with listening. Not just hearing — but really listening, with the intent to understand, not just respond.

Where I’ve lived it:
Throughout this campaign, I’ve listened to the people who make this profession: technicians who want to be better utilized, students worried about debt, rural vets holding their communities together, and volunteers working behind the scenes. Your voices shape how I lead.

🔥 We Need a Disruptor (with Compassion)

There are times when we need to challenge the system.
Not recklessly. Not to stir the pot.
But because we know veterinary medicine can — and should — be better.

Where I’ve lived it:
I’ve questioned norms. I’ve proposed new models. I’ve said “what if?” when others stayed quiet. But I always come back to service, curiosity, and care. Disruption doesn’t have to be loud — it just has to move us forward.

✨ What This All Comes Down To

Leadership in 2025 isn’t about checking boxes. It’s not about being the most polished or most traditional.

It’s about being real.
It’s about showing up.
It’s about making space for others — while carrying the responsibility of service with heart, grit, and integrity.

That’s what I’ve done throughout my career. And that’s what I’ll continue to do — with your trust and support — as AVMA President-Elect.

Let’s move forward. Together.