The OAVT's Recognition Program

Being unable to gather for in-person celebrations over the past few years has provided the opportunity for the OAVT to assess how a variety of programs are meeting the needs of members. Recently, the Staff and Board of Directors have been looking at the awards program, and the years of membership pin recipients. These programs did not naturally fit a virtual presentation during the conference month, which led to a new approach. 

We are excited to announce that the celebration of the annual awards, student bursary recipients and years of membership pin recipients will now be known as the OAVT’s Recognition ProgramEach October (during RVT Month!) we will celebrate the accomplishments of RVTs, students, and key industry supporters.

 Annual Awards Program

The annual awards will also go through several additional improvements. To learn more about these improvements and how to get involved, click on the sections below. 

Four new awards are being introduced for this year:

  • RVT Excellence Award
  • Sustainability Award
  • Best in Practice Award
  • Volunteer of the Year Award

Click on the descriptions below for more information or to submit a nomination.

The Board of Directors has historically selected the award recipients from the submissions received. Moving forward, the Board of Directors would like to increase involvement and participation from the membership by establishing a selection committee.

The committee will meet from July to September annually. Individuals interested in being involved can click here to apply.

In order to celebrate award recipients during RVT Month, nominations will open annually in June and close in July. The selection committee will deliberate in August and recipients will be notified in September.

Award Categories

Click on the category below to learn more or submit your nomination. Submissions close July 29, 2022.

RVT of the Year

Recognizes an RVT in good standing with the OAVT who exemplifies dedication to the humane medical treatment of animals and excels in all aspects of their field.

Sustainability award

This award recognizes a clinic or organization, with RVTs on staff, who is leading the way in sustainability practices.

RVT Excellence Award

This award recognizes a new RVT that is within their first two years of practice. The recipient is excelling in their career and making a progressive impact as an RVT.

Outstanding Contributions Award

The recipient of this award is an RVT in good standing with the OAVT who has demonstrated outstanding support for the RVT profession.

Veterinary Appreciation Award

Recognizes a Veterinarian that has demonstrated outstanding support of and contributions to the increased awareness of the role of the RVT.

Collaboration Award

Recognizes an organization or stakeholder in the animal health community who has demonstrated outstanding support and contribution to the increased awareness of the RVTs.

Merit Award

Recognizes an RVT in good standing with the OAVT who has demonstrated a long-standing history of community service and dedication at the regional, provincial, or national level in a professionally related association.

Best In Practice Award

This award recognizes a clinic that embodies the ideal veterinary team model by using RVTs to their fullest capabilities and building an integrated and supportive team throughout the clinic.

Volunteer of the Year

Nominated by the OAVT's staff or Board of Directors, this award recognizes an individual that has provided outstanding volunteer support to the OAVT and their initiatives.

How do I become an RVT

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