At VEG, we believe in finding a way to say YES to our people, so they can do the unexpected in their vet med careers—helping them grow in ways that impact not only our hospitals but also the broader veterinary industry. This commitment to development and opportunity was on full display at our first annual Veterinary Nursing Case Report Night. This event is part of our goal to help our veterinary nurses become industry leaders.
Six of our talented veterinary nurses presented remarkable veterinary cases that showcased their expertise and offered practical takeaways for everyone in attendance. From performing successful RECOVER CPR, therapeutic phlebotomy, autotransfusions, removing tracheal obstructions and more, our veterinary nurses highlighted the breadth and depth of their skills.
At VEG, calling our credentialed veterinary technicians 'veterinary nurses' isn’t just about titles—it’s about giving them the recognition they fight for, despite being told 'that’s not possible.' We’re here to change the narrative and make sure they can stand proud, knowing their role in emergency vet med is as essential and valued as they've always believed it to be.
VET NURSES PRESENT THEIR CLINICAL CASES
Support for the presenters came from all parts of VEG. Over 100 people attended the event hosted by Betsy Hensley, MEd, CVT, the Sr. Manager Credential Support and Ken Yagi, MS, RVT, VTS (ECC), (SAIM), the Chief Veterinary Nursing Officer, including an audience of veterinary nurses and assistants, doctors, medical directors, and hospital leadership, cheering on the presenters and offering insightful feedback.
One thing that makes VEG different is that no matter the role or level, we always show up for each other both in how our ER vet professionals seamlessly work together on the floor, but also in moments of celebration and support, and this event was a perfect example of that. The judges—Mary Katherine Follin, David Liss, Melanie Grajeda, and Erin Spencer—provided thoughtful critiques focused on improving clinical delivery and honing presentation skills.
The Veterinary Nursing Case Report Night is a place of nurturing, setting these presenters looking forward to their next speaking opportunity, and inspiring others to muster up the courage to try public speaking.
One of our principles of creating an amazing career experience for our VEGgies is finding a way to say YES, so they can grow where they want to go, and opportunities like the Veterinary Nursing Case Report Night are a key part of how we bring that to life.
EMPOWERING VETERINARY NURSES AS PRESENTERS: A SUPPORTIVE SPACE TO GROW
The Veterinary Nursing Case Report Night provided a unique opportunity for veterinary nurses to present in a safe, supportive environment. Rachel Cepelak, LVT, VTS (SAIM), expressed her excitement about the opportunity:"It was an exciting chance to present my case report and get feedback from colleagues. The mentorship I received before the event was so helpful in preparing me for the larger stage."
Rachel’s presentation experience helped her gain the confidence to pursue speaking opportunities at national conferences, such as IVECCS.
For Corrinn Yashenko, LVT, FFCP, CPNC, PTNC, RECOVER CPR Certified Instructor, the event offered a chance to push past her fears:"Public speaking is one of my biggest fears, but I’ve always believed the only way to grow is to face healthy fears. This opportunity pushed me to overcome that fear and develop as a speaker."
The feedback Corrinn received during the event helped her refine her presentation and build her confidence.
Colleen Johnson, CVT, VTS (ECC), who went on to win the Technician Case Report Award at IVECCS 2024, reflected on how the event helped prepare her:"The support I received from the judges and mentors helped me refine my case and improve my delivery. It was an incredible opportunity to practice and gain confidence before presenting on a larger stage."
Colleen’s success at IVECCS highlights how VEG empowers veterinary nurses to excel beyond the hospital.
A PATH TO VET MED INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
The Veterinary Nursing Case Report Night is just one of the ways VEG is creating opportunities for our veterinary nurses to grow into industry leaders. By offering mentorship and a platform to share their expertise, we’re giving them the confidence and skills to make an impact beyond their day-to-day roles.
Ashley Tavares, CVT, VTS (ECC), Nursing Trainer, emphasized how the experience boosted her confidence: "The feedback from the judges was invaluable. It helped me understand where I could improve, and now I’m eager to explore other speaking opportunities."
The case report night gave Ashley the tools she needed to refine her skills and expand her reach within the veterinary industry.
For Rachel, Corrinn, Colleen, and Ashley, the Veterinary Nursing Case Report Night has been a launching pad to bigger opportunities. As Colleen summed it up: "This was an incredible opportunity to grow as a veterinary nurse and refine my public speaking skills. I can’t wait to take what I’ve learned to the next level."
At VEG, we’re committed to creating these opportunities—helping our veterinary nurses grow where they want to go, whether that’s in our hospitals or on stages across the veterinary industry.
Events like the Veterinary Nursing Case Report Night are just some of the demonstrations of how we will always find a way to say YES to investing in our VEGgies.
