2023 Board of Directors Nominees

Below are the nominee profiles for each of the candidates for the OAVT Board of Directors. In 2023, there are five (5) positions open on the Board. Please review the candidates below, candidates are listed alphabetically by last name. Each nominee was given four questions to answer, and was provided the optional opportunity to record a video to explain in one minute or less why they want to be on the OAVT Board of Directors. If a nominee chose to record a video, it is included in their profile.

1. Give us an idea of why you are seeking to be a Director for the OAVT

I have been a member of the OAVT since 2004, and have found that it can be hard to know how to do simple things, like submitting CE credits, or finding events to volunteer at. I was thinking about the board of directors and how things change over the years, and that I think I would have some valuable experience to contribute to the future of the OAVT.

2. Tell the members about your background and qualifications for this position (biography, resume, and/or listing of qualifications)

Seneca College – Veterinary Technology – 2002-2004

2004-2014 – worked at 2 different small animal practices in Sudbury, where there are no specialists or emergency hospitals, so the RVTs get a lot of experience in a variety of fields (lab work, emergency surgery, dermatology, internal medicine, dentistry, etc)

2014-present – working at 404 Veterinary Emergency and Referral Hospital – started in Dermatology, quickly moved to the ICU, then since 2016 have taken on leadership roles in the hospital, finding myself currently the Technical Manager for the hospital, as well as the Emergency Team Leader

3. Tell us about your expertise and how you plan to meet the objectives and goals of the OAVT

I guess my plan for meeting objectives and goals depends on what direction the OAVT is headed. Speaking from experience in my current role at my hospital, we really need to advocate for our RVTs and get them out in the community, so people know who we are and what we do. We also need to work to increase the amount of responsibility that the RVTs can take on. We give our RVTs a lot of freedom and trust, because we feel that utilizing our RVTs to the best of their ability gives our DVMs the space and time that they need to do their job. RVTs have such vast training and knowledge, and it tends to fade as they settle into their jobs, because they don’t know how to advocate for themselves and/or they work somewhere that they are not appreciated.

4. What is your vision for the future of the profession? How do you feel the OAVT can positively influence this vision?

I would love to see the OAVT creating more of an internship-like role for new grad RVTs who have just finished school, but are not sure what they want to do. Getting into the schools more and giving the VT students more information about what they can do and what options are out there for them will help them be more prepared for their career. Also, creating more of a focus on the client interaction/communication part of the job. This is the biggest hurdle that I see new grads facing, learning how to handle difficult clients or challenging client interactions.

1. Give us an idea of why you are seeking to be a Director for the OAVT

I am passionate about protecting the registered status and scope of practice for RVTs. It’s my goal to promote the association to the public, so our role is better understood. This starts with legislation! I would love to be part of the team involved in brainstorming ideas on how to better serve our members. I also have a keen interest in improving continuing education opportunities for RVTs.

2. Tell the members about your background and qualifications for this position (biography, resume, and/or listing of qualifications)

I am an RVT of almost 15 years but I have been working in the industry for 20+ years. Additionally I have experience in social media marketing for a publishing company and for small, independently owned veterinary practices. My wide range of skills and experience in these roles would make me an ideal candidate for a position on the board of directors.

3. Tell us about your expertise and how you plan to meet the objectives and goals of the OAVT

My extensive experience and committment in the industry will allow me to serve the members with integrity and dedication. I look forward to hearing the concerns of our membership and working with the board to find innovative ideas and solutions.

4. What is your vision for the future of the profession? How do you feel the OAVT can positively influence this vision?

I see a future where the scope of practice for RVTs is clearly specified and delegated only to trained and registered staff. This will increase our value as RVTs. The OAVT can help change this legislation and push forward for change. We have come so far already thanks to the amazing board members of past and present. I am excited at the opportunity to work with the board and be a voice for RVTs across Ontario. Thanks for taking the time to review my candidate package

 1. Give us an idea of why you are seeking to be a Director for the OAVT

Over the last two years, I’ve had the absolute pleasure of serving on the OAVT Board of Directors and am seeking re-election for 2023/2024.

Being a Director on the OAVT Board for the past two years has been a remarkable learning experience, which has provided many opportunities for expanded leadership and growth. This experience has further ignited my passion for RVTs and veterinary medicine, and I have loved advocating for and speaking on behalf of our incredible Ontario RVTs at various tables!

There are so many exciting changes on the horizon, and I would love the opportunity to continue to sit at the Board table and represent the OAVT and RVTs in Ontario!

2. Tell the members about your background and qualifications for this position (biography, resume, and/or listing of qualifications)

With 19 years of experience working in veterinary medicine, 11 of which have been as an RVT, I bring a great deal of experience to the table. I have worked in small, exotic, wildlife, equine and food production medicine. I also have varied teaching experience in both the Veterinary Technician and Assistant programs.

Growing up on a dairy farm instilled a strong passion to work in an agricultural setting, and I pursued that passion in practice. In June of 2011, I completed a Large Animal Biosecurity Externship via the OAVT and subsequently moved to Manitoba, where I further developed my skill set as a large animal RVT. I worked with beef and dairy producers in a preventative health, reproduction, surgical and herd health capacity on farm and in-clinic, as well as with equine clients in a variety of modalities and disciplines.

Upon returning to Ontario, I continued working in large animal practice until moving into education. While working at Seneca College in the Veterinary Technician Program, I taught clinical pathology and facilitated labs in large and small animal medicine, focusing on restraint, nursing skills, and medical procedures, with a personal focus on large animal and ruminant behaviour.

Throughout my career, I have sought opportunities to get involved in the RVT profession. I have participated on the Speaker Planning Committee for the OAVT Conference since 2019, conducted live disbudding demonstrations for veterinary technician students, spoken at the OAVT conference, and of course, been a Board member of the OAVT since 2021.

3. Tell us about your expertise and how you plan to meet the objectives and goals of the OAVT

Throughout my career, I have developed a strong ability to communicate with various stakeholder groups, clientele, regulatory personnel, and other professional connections with tact, honesty, and professionalism. This skill set has been vital in my role as a Director at the OAVT Board.

In addition, having worked with such varied species in my career in residential, commercial, educational, agricultural, and agri-food settings, has allowed me to develop clinical reasoning and practical nursing skills that are unique. My extensive hands-on experience in welfare, behavioural, surgical, internal medicine, diagnostic, herd and health management, and animal husbandry capacities allows me to contribute practical and useful insight at many stakeholder tables.

I am also a strong and vocal advocate for mental health resources for RVTs. In 2021, a “Mental Health Fireside Chat” was hosted by the OAVT to assist RVTs struggling with compassion fatigue, burnout, depression, anxiety, and mental health disorders. This session, in which I was a speaker, resulted from a proposal that I submitted after the sudden death of a friend and colleague who lost their battle with mental health. The increase in awareness, but also the necessary action, will ensure that RVTs in Ontario are strong and have much-needed access to resources. Ultimately this will allow RVTs to develop a fulfilling, safe, and rewarding, life-long career.

I strongly believe that my combined skill sets are well suited to help support and guide the OAVT and Ontario RVTs into the next chapter of our organization and profession.

4. What is your vision for the future of the profession? How do you feel the OAVT can positively influence this vision?

What an exciting question! My vision for the future of our profession is one where RVTs are not considered auxiliary staff but are supported, heard, and respected as the competent, knowledgeable, and integral healthcare workers that they are! A profession with a protected scope of practice and title. A profession where career advancement, new opportunities, and leadership roles are not unique but expected. A profession that no longer must worry about whether there will be fair pay or a liveable wage, and one that is free of staggering levels of burnout and mental health crises!

The OAVT has done a remarkable job of driving the profession forward and raising public awareness in recent years, and we are on the precipice of positive and lasting change. With the Veterinarians Act being opened for consultation for the first time in 30 years, the need to continue to positively push forward and impart change has never been greater. There are some incredible voices on the OAVT Board, and I would very much like to do my part for the profession and the association by continuing to be one of them.

1. Give us an idea of why you are seeking to be a Director for the OAVT

I am seeking to be a Director for the OAVT because I want to challenge myself as an RVT in a totally different way.

I want to lend my voice in innovating the way we move forward in improving and elevating the veterinary profession for the future generations of RVTs and the way we can impact the care we can provide to our patients and the public.

2. Tell the members about your background and qualifications for this position (biography, resume, and/or listing of qualifications)

I knew from a young age I wanted to work in the vet field. In 2007, I graduated from Seneca College’s Vet Tech program. I started working in small animal practice at age 18 and completed the Animal Care program at Sheridan while climbing from kennel attendant to vet assistant.

Working as an RVT for the past 15 years has taught me great communication and management skills. I enjoy using my creativity to help elevate the vet tech and vet tech students that come through the clinics I work at because I believe we all need to support each other to succeed.

3. Tell us about your expertise and how you plan to meet the objectives and goals of the OAVT

I have been in the veterinary profession for 21 years (15 of those as an RVT). I have experiences a variety of ways to get different jobs done in team moral, management, creative problem solving and support. I feel I can help meet the objectives and goals of the OAVT by bringing a different perspective as I’ve always had an interest in how different dynamics of people can come together to problem solve and succeed. I am a natural leader and I feel passionate about educating people and building a positive environment.

4. What is your vision for the future of the profession? How do you feel the OAVT can positively influence this vision?

For the future of our profession, I see us growing to seek opportunities that showcase to the public how diverse, knowledgeable and skillful our profession is and that we are not just nurses and are also affected by mental health and stresses like in any medical profession.

The OAVT can help to positively influence this vision by helping to bring awareness to other sectors of the large umbrella that is the veterinary profession so we can help to bridge to gaps and be on the same page as a more cohesive and united community. This way we can help bring awareness to our challenges to the public.

1. Give us an idea of why you are seeking to be a Director for the OAVT

I am seeking and have previously sought to be a Director (on the Board of Directors) with a few clear goals in mind. First and foremost, I want to represent you the people who are in the trenches everyday; whose blood sweat and tears are the lifeblood of the profession. Second I want to help push the profession towards a legally defined job with a real scope of practice something we may now finally see soon. Third I have a long-term vision for RVTs (for which I am not alone) that wants to see the development of a new RVT designation that would be in line with what nurse practitioners do in human medicine. Lastly having ran for the role of Director in the last several elections I think our elections process needs an overhaul and full transparency. What I mean by that is how many people vote, how many votes every candidate gets and a real chance for those running to connect with the membership before the election through our Facebook group or townhalls. 

2. Tell the members about your background and qualifications for this position (biography, resume, and/or listing of qualifications)

I have been an RVT since 2015, having graduated from Sheridan College. While in school I completed a placement at a research facility; spent three years working as an RVT in a shelter environment, developed and taught education programs and of course worked (and work currently) in a clinical setting. I also am part of the Rabies Response Program and am to the best of my knowledge the only person to become an RVT and a member pf the RRP at the same time. I also volunteered with the One Health Committee with several members of the OAVT.

3. Tell us about your expertise and how you plan to meet the objectives and goals of the OAVT

First and foremost I am passionate about the field and about RVT’s. Having developed and taught vet medicine to children (intro classes and camps at the humane society) has allowed me to become a good listener who communicates well. I don’t have any direct experience on as a Director but what I do have is passion and a vision for our future in both the short and long term.

4. What is your vision for the future of the profession? How do you feel the OAVT can positively influence this vision?

In the short term I think we need to focus on two things. First and foremost a legally defined role for RVTS in a Veterinary setting that would free us to work to our full ability and protect both RVT’s and Veterinarians. I would like to see more transparency with our elections and more opportunities to connect with RVTs (who are the end of the day are the organization) during the election process.

In the long term I envision a separate designation of RVT’s (for those who are interested) that would mirror nurse practitioners. With that would come additional schooling and certification. What I would like to see that afford us is the ability to prescribe a limited number of drugs, diagnose, refer, and see patients not under the direct supervision of a veterinarian. This would allow us to take some of the pressure of Veterinarians who want to do more surgery and it would give more opportunities to RVT’s. I believe it would allow clinic owners and RVTS to make more money. It would also give RVT’s who want a larger role the ability to have that and allow Veterinarians who want to focus on surgery more opportunity to do that.

It could allow greater consumer choice, better job satisfaction and most importantly better outcomes for animals by shifting some of the workload away from over worked veterinarians. I think in a lot of ways it has improved and streamlines human medicine and can do the same for us.

1. Give us an idea of why you are seeking to be a Director for the OAVT

One of the things I love about the RVT profession is that it has some of the most passionate, skilled, resourceful, and resilient individuals – all working towards the same overall goal of elevating the practice of veterinary medicine. Despite this, I recognize unique challenges within this industry that need reviewing to ensure appropriate solutions to critical issues are implemented. I want to see progressive change in this profession that makes current RVTs want to stay and future RVTs want to join.

As an active OAVT member, supporter, and volunteer for many years, it is time to take the next step and put my skills and knowledge to work on behalf of our diverse membership after 13 years in this wonderful profession.

I am already well versed in the interests of the Association and profession through my previous role as Member Services Manager with the OAVT and the various volunteer and advocacy efforts I have participated in. Being familiar with the day-to-day operations of the OAVT, I want the opportunity to make an impact from the other side of the table, so to speak, as a member of the Board of Directors.

2. Tell the members about your background and qualifications for this position (biography, resume, and/or listing of qualifications)

Current Roles:
• Ontario Dairy Research Centre
• Vetsource Insights
• OAVT Rabies Response Program Contributor since 2017

Past Work Experience:
• Independent RVT Event Contractor (OVMA 2022, Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show 2022)
• Industry Sales
• OAVT Member Services Manager
• Dairy Cow Breed Association
• RVT in Small & Mixed Animal Practice, Emergency, and Ophthalmology Referral

Education:
• Project Management Graduate Certificate from Conestoga College, School of Business (to be completed April 2023)
• Registered as an RVT with the OAVT since 2009
• Graduated from Georgian College (Honours Veterinary Technician Diploma) in 2009

Activities:
• RVTTC RVT Month Steering Committee – September 2022
• OAVT Awards Selection Committee – August 2022
• OAVT Virtual Conference Session Moderator – March 2021, March 2022
• St. John Ambulance Therapy Dog Program Visiting Team/Volunteer – September 2019-Current
• OAVT RVT Journal Peer Review Volunteer – May 2019-Current
• OAVT Professionalism and Ethics Workshop Coach – October 2018-October 2021

3. Tell us about your expertise and how you plan to meet the objectives and goals of the OAVT

At the time of the election, I will be halfway through my final semester in the Project Management Graduate Certificate program through Conestoga College. In this program, I have learned how to manage projects effectively from start to finish, whether simple or complex, to achieve an organization’s strategic vision. My education has taught me to skillfully identify risks, meticulously manage a schedule and budget, create detailed planning documents, and confidently lead a team to success.

This, combined with my wide-ranging experiences as an RVT, allows me to approach challenges from a different angle while keeping the best interests of RVTs and the industry in my sights. My vast and well-rounded skill set benefits the OAVT because it will allow me to help the Association reach its objectives while professionally engaging with key industry stakeholders and partners.

Additionally, I plan to put my project skills to use by assisting in the execution of new programs or initiatives. It would be great to develop advanced credentialing programs right here in Ontario for RVTs. Currently, many advanced credentials are accessed through organizations based in the United States (VTS, CCRP etc.). It is important to me that these advanced credentials are inclusive and accommodate those from marginalized communities, neurodivergent individuals, remote/rurally located RVTs, and francophone RVTs.

4. What is your vision for the future of the profession? How do you feel the OAVT can positively influence this vision?

The OAVT can, and is in the process of, positively influencing my vision for the profession’s future. One of the collective goals of Ontario RVTs is to gain recognition in the currently outdated Veterinarian’s Act through legislative reform.

The omission of RVTs in the Veterinarian’s Act has hindered our ability to thrive in our chosen profession. The proposed changes to the Act will allow RVTs and Veterinarians to work more effectively together. RVT recognition in the Act will allow for full utilization on veterinary teams and allow both Veterinarians and RVTs to have sustainable, fulfilling, and long-lasting careers. This will be reflected by outlining a designated scope of practice for RVTs, which will help to provide better access to care for pet owners, increase RVT retention, encourage others to join the profession, and increase wages and overall compensation packages for RVTs.

Many roles can and should be filled by highly skilled RVT candidates. I am passionate about uncovering alternate career paths for RVTs. I hope, if elected, to participate in working groups and act as the voice of RVTs during round table discussions. I aim to open more unique areas for RVTs to move into and continue growing their chosen careers.

It is a pivotal time for our profession, and our actions today will have a long-lasting impact on what being an RVT can look like in the future.

1. Give us an idea of why you are seeking to be a Director for the OAVT

I have had the privilege to represent RVTs on the board for the past two years. I have spent that last year representing the board as Vice President and have been honoured to develop skills that I can use as an asset while representing RVTs. I am seeking re-election because I am eager to continue the work towards our strategic goals that not only benefit RVTs as a profession but grow in our professional identity. I bring a unique perspective as a business owner and a large background in agriculture and agri-food sectors. I have also specialized in small animal rehabilitation and utilize my skillset to the fullest extent of my license. I continue to lead by example and challenge perspective while working hard to create positive change. I work with alongside veterinary teams through referral and dive into opportunities to grow as a professional and intend on continuing that work as a leader in our association. Veterinary medicine has a true team approach and I look forward to being apart of the team that represents RVT growth and longevity.

2. Tell the members about your background and qualifications for this position (biography, resume, and/or listing of qualifications)

I have an extensive background in business, entrepreneurship, and rehabilitation to start. I achieved my CCRP designation and currently own and operate an animal wellness centre that specializes in boarding, daycare and integrative medicine approaches using only qualified and certified staff. Outside of my duties as an RVT, I also achieved a business diploma and continue to advocate RVTs in business. I have also had the privilege to serve on the Board of Directors for the last two years and the last year as the Vice President of the OAVT. I continue to bring my skill set in business, finance, strategic planning, and specializations to the table. I have experience in wildlife conservation, large animal, agri-food, small animal rehabilitation and small animal medicine and always looking for new learning opportunities to improve my skill set and diversify the table. I look forward to continuing to utilize my skillset to the fullest and continuing to provide perspective.

3. Tell us about your expertise and how you plan to meet the objectives and goals of the OAVT

I had the privilege to brainstorm and strategic plan with the board in 2021. I plan to continue to challenge perspectives and open opportunities to grow our industry. From business/ entrepreneurship to specialized skillsets, I believe that our profession as RVTs has continued potential to grow and thrive. I have been a known advocate for the full utilization of RVTs in practice and as professionals over-all. I have continued to be a part of the solution to finding a career that is sustainable and offers continual room to grow and learn. As a business owner, I thrive when goal setting and work hard to achieve these goals. I understand risk management and finance well and find the budget to be a particular highlight of board work during the year. I continually question the balance of risk and reward and often review the goals for the years to come and look for industry changes. I have also had experience with legislative reform and continue to learn and grow in this area to best represent the potential for future RVTs. I want to continue this work towards our strategic goals and achieve as much as we can during this legislative reform process while developing a sustainable association for future RVTs to be supported. I look forward to maximizing my skillset and continuing to advocate for the future of RVTs.

4. What is your vision for the future of the profession? How do you feel the OAVT can positively influence this vision?

My vison is to see RVT s thriving in their passion with a defined scope of practice and a professional identity that allows RVTs to grow and learn. I want RVTs to have further opportunities in leadership roles and fully utilize their skillsets. I see RVTs continuing to grow in their role and open new opportunities to grow in the industry. I would love to see a nurse practitioner model be developed to improve the overall scope of veterinary medicine. I believe that the OAVT’s continued conversations about legislation reform and association advocacy efforts will develop these ideas become strategic goals. The veterinary shortage will continue to play a role in these conversations and RVTs can continue to help with this by fully utilizing our skillset in practice. With appropriate title protection, and a defined scope of practice in legislative reform, the OAVT can continue to focus on RVT wellbeing, RVT advocacy and RVT growth.