American Veterinary Medical Association President Joseph H. Kinnarney, DVM, MS delivers commencement address
inside this issue:
A NEW NETWORK A BRIGHT FUTURE FOR DVM GRADS Q&A WITH JOSEPH H. KINNARNEY
MESSAGE FROM THE DEAN
Dear Ross Alumni, Whether it’s been only a few short months or many years since you completed your Ross education, I am certain the experience you had is one that you will carry with you throughout your career, and your life. Because of the continued accomplishments of our alumni and the many legacies you left as a part of your time as a student, we are even more focused on improving our student experience each and every day. Your continued feedback and contributions to our educational program and mentorship of our students help Ross to become an even stronger veterinary school. As I have said before, Ross is one, large extended family, with members around the world and the foundation of our family, right here in St. Kitts. As with any family, our goal is to continue strengthening the bond we have as a larger Rossie family by growing and celebrating with each other through these experiences. I frequently learn about the many accomplishments of our students, our alumni and our faculty in the academic and veterinary world, but also throughout our communities. From leading outreach activities in countries such as Africa, to supporting diversity initiatives on campus, to becoming known for saving a pet’s life, to outstanding research discoveries on antibiotic resistance. Accomplishments like these will only continue to create awareness of the successful and diverse students and colleagues we have on our campus and alumni who exist throughout the globe—each one striving to make a difference in the human and animal world, while learning from each other. It is the accomplishments of our entire Rossie family—students, colleagues, and proud alumni—that truly inspire me. In this issue of our magazine, I hope you will find that some, if not all, of these stories inspire you, too. I look forward to learning more about your accomplishments. If you have any comments, questions, or feedback about the magazine, I encourage you to reach out to alumniaffairsvet@rossu.edu. With pride,
Guy St. Jean, DVM, MS, DipACVS Interim Dean Professor of Surgery
FEATURES
6 12
FALL 2016
A NEW NETWORK
Thanks to two new professional networking initiatives, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine alumni can connect with current students, recent grads, and one another.
A BRIGHT FUTURE FOR DVM GRADS
On May 21, 2016, the newest class of Ross graduates gathered in Coral Gables, FL, with family and friends to celebrate completing their DVM, and taking their next step in veterinary medicine.
Guy St. Jean, DVM, MS, Dipl, ACVS Interim Dean Professor of Surgery Stephen J. DeSalvo Director of Institutional Advancement & Alumni Relations ALUMNI REL ATIONS
Jennifer LeFebvre James Errico SPECIAL E VENTS
14
SITTING DOWN WITH COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER AND AVMA PRESIDENT JOSEPH KINNARNEY
This year, Ross welcomed American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) President Joseph H. Kinnarney, DVM, MS to deliver the commencement address. Here’s what he had to say about challenging first impressions, tackling the issues of tomorrow, and the power of organization.
IN OTHER NEWS
4 16
BULLETIN BOARD PROFILES
20 23
ALUMNI EVENT RECAPS CLASS NOTES
Cheryl Schumacher Kenneth Edwards Morgan Lynch M ARKETING & COMMUNIC ATIONS
Jennifer Colodney Chris Railey
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS/EDITORS
Kristin Baresich Jenna Calder Stephen DeSalvo Sara Kaufman Jerry Kimbrough Melissa Kvidahl Nathalie Mather-L’Huillier
M AGA ZINE PROJEC T M ANAGER
Kristine Lester DESIGN
Peter Gialloreto Howard Design Group, Inc. Princeton, NJ
ROSS ALUMNI MAGAZINE is published by the Office of Institutional Advancement and Alumni Relations along with the office of Marketing and Communications. It is distributed to alumni, faculty, staff, students and friends. For information or to send name/address changes please contact: rusvmalumni@rossu.edu.
Alumni Magazine | 1
FROM THE ALUMNI DIRECTOR’S DESK When one door closes, another opens. But often we look
so long, so regretfully, upon the closed door, that we fail to see the one that is opened for us. — Alexander Graham Bell
As Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine graduates, you made the choice to not look upon that closed door, you kept searching for one to open. You, along with your fellow alumni, persevered, and continued to reach for your dreams of becoming a veterinarian. I take the same approach to building a strong unified Alumni Association. It is my goal to connect all Ross graduates together in a strong network that lasts well beyond graduation, which can help open doors for future Ross students. Over the last two years, we have dramatically increased the number of Alumni Ambassadors that give their time and talents back to the University, as a constant reminder of where it all began—when they donned their white coats for the first time at the White Coat Ceremony. These Alumni Ambassadors sit on panels and speak to prospective students, visit campus, meet with student organizations, perform guest lectures, or simply reply to emails from students that are wondering what it was like to attend Ross. We have recently taken the Association into a whole new area of engagement. The Ross Scholarship Fund has been established to keep education within reach by providing financial support in the form of scholarships to its students. Some students may struggle to find the necessary funds to advance their education. The Scholarship Fund strives to be part of the solution to bridge this financial gap by assisting students in defraying the cost of attending school. All funds collected go to immediate distribution to current/future students. We recognize, acknowledge, and embrace our alumni as vital stakeholders in the advancement of the University. Therefore, we encourage all alumni to participate in and support the programs, services, and numerous activities and events. We hope you stay connected with us through involvement and participation in the Ross Alumni Association. We also encourage each of you to be advocates in your respective community by assisting with the recruitment of new students. You have the opportunity to open a new door for someone just like you! Sincerely,
Stephen J. DeSalvo Director, Institutional Advancement & Alumni Relations RUSVMalumni@rossu.edu
2 | Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine
BE A ROSS ALUMNI AMBASSADOR Do you have some free time to give to your alma mater? Would you like to share the value of your education with prospective students and their families? Are you looking for a meaningful way to volunteer? Become an Ross Alumni Ambassador today! Alumni activities include, but are not limited to, the following: • Information Seminar Speaker • Current Student Outreach Rep • On-Campus Panelist • White Coat Ceremony Speaker • Commencement Speaker • Email Ambassador • Social Media Ambassador (Facebook®, LinkedIn®, Twitter®) • Enrollment Webinar Alumni Rep • Prospective Student Outreach Rep • Clinical Representative • Alumni Mentor Program
• Speaker at College Fairs • Transitional Program Speaker • Regional Chapter Leader • New Student Reception Event • Profile in Marketing Material • Alumni Association Council Member • Post Internship/Job Opportunities • Class Representative • Conference Speaker/Presenter • WIVC Speaker • Make a Scholarship Donation And much more…
If you are interested in the Alumni Ambassador program and would like more information, please email us at rusvmalumni@rossu.edu.
Alumni Magazine | 3
BULLETIN BOARD WHITE COAT CEREMONY
JANUARY 2016
Krista Keller, DVM, Dipl ACZM ’10, was the keynote speaker during Ross’ January white coat ceremony. Dr. Keller, an avian and exotic veterinary specialist at University Hills Animal Hospital (Denver, CO), welcomed the new students to the Ross family. She shared her educational experience leading up to Ross, how being a Rossie has helped her get where she is today. She also stressed how Ross is a family, and once you are a part of that family, you are a part of it for life. “I challenge you to find your passion,” she said, “I look forward to meeting you again as peers and fellow alumni.” n
4 | Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine
WHITE COAT CEREMONY
MAY 2016
Lauren Deahl, DVM ’12, was the keynote speaker during this Ross’ May white coat ceremony. Dr. Deahl welcomed the new class of eager veterinary students to the Ross family, and stressed the importance of being attentive in class and participating. “You have chosen a career where you will never stop learning,” she said. She also spoke about the special relationships she made with certain Ross professors—with whom she studied for her board exams, and later became friends with. She encouraged each student in the room to get to know one or two professors on a personal level. n
NYC REGIONAL CHAPTER DINNER
FEBRUARY 2016
The Ross Alumni Association hosted an alumni dinner at Daniela Trattoria in New York City on Saturday, February 23, 2016. The event was attended by 10 Ross alumni and their guests. The intimate setting of Daniela allowed for quiet conversation and networking with all of the alumni and staff in the room. If you would like to attend a regional chapter dinner in your area please email RUSVMalumni@rossu.edu and let us know! n
SHOW YOUR ROSS PRIDE. RECOMMEND A FUTURE STUDENT. You’ve worked hard to join the ranks of our proud alumni community, and future veterinarians want to follow in your footsteps. You can help—all it takes is a letter and a qualified candidate. If you know a prospective student of veterinary medicine, or have had one volunteer at your practice, now’s the time to help them earn the Ross Pride of Alumni/Book Scholarship. For more information or to submit a recommendation, please contact Sharon O’Dea at sodea@rossu.edu.
NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR ROSS STUDENTS AT ROYAL VETERINARY COLLEGE OF LONDON MAY 2016
Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine announced a new clinical affiliation with the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) in London, United Kingdom. Through this affiliation Ross students will have the opportunity to spend their clinical training year at the RVC, focusing on their future career paths through core and elective rotations. The RVC, part of the University of London, has been ranked as one of the top three veterinary schools in the world, and the highest ranked outside North America, according to the 2016 QS World University Rankings. “Students at the RVC will experience our fully accredited clinical training program at one of the largest referral hospitals in the world,” said Professor David Church, vice principal for learning and the student experience at the RVC. “We are enormously proud of the education we offer.” The largest and longest-established vet school in the English-speaking world, the RVC holds full accreditation from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), European Association of Establishments for Veterinary Education (EAEVE), Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), Australian Veterinary Boards Council Inc. (AVBC) and the Royal Society of Biology. n Alumni Magazine | 5
feature
ROSS GRADS ARE
IN DEMAND! Meet two alumni who have it their mission to hire their fellow Ross grads. THE ENTREPRENEUR
MICKEY AXELBAND, DVM (’85) CEO, American Veterinary Group HIS ROLE: After owning and selling three practices of his own in South Florida, Axelband decided to set his sights on building a large network of animal hospitals. “Many Baby Boomers are looking to retire, but new graduates and younger veterinarians don’t want to own practices,” he says. Seizing this opportunity, Axelband launched the American Veterinary Group in November of 2015, and so far has incorporated six animal hospitals into the network. He hopes to acquire between 150 and 200 practices in the southern US by 2023. WHY ROSSIES: Since Axelband will need to hire many veterinarians over the course of the next few years—and beyond—partnering with Ross seemed a natural fit. As an alumnus, there’s an undeniable connection and camaraderie, he says, “because we all share that bond of having been at Ross.” But, as a CEO, he also recognizes that the university offers him something that others often can’t: a large volume and steady stream of talented graduates looking for work. “If I can help Ross graduates get a great first job, hopefully, we can train them and they’ll stay with us long term,” he says. “It’s a win/win for both parties because I am giving back to Ross and, at the same time, the graduates I hire are providing me with the expertise that I need.”
Indeed, Axelband has found that Ross grads have a uniquely strong work ethic, which he chalks up to taking the path less traveled. “While veterinary school is difficult no matter where you study, Ross students have the added difficulty of adapting to living in another country and facing situations that arise when you’re outside of the US and don’t have the amenities you’re used to,” he says. “It makes for a more well rounded person and veterinarian.”
6 | Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine
JOBS
THE ISLAND LIFER
ALEXANDRA QUARTI, DVM (’07) Medical director, New England South, Banfield Pet Hospital HER ROLE: As medical director of the New England South region of Banfield Pet Hospital, Quarti oversees 14 out of the network’s 950 hospitals. She is responsible for all of the hiring at these hospitals, with about 45 doctors reporting to her currently, and she is the official Ross liaison for the entire Banfield network. “I started making visits to Ross when I first accepted this position in 2010,” she says, “and I’ve recruited alumni and students ever since.” To date, she estimates she’s hired about 20 Ross alumni. WHY ROSSIES: Ever since Quarti vacationed in St. Kitts as a child, the island has held a special place in her heart. Not only did she decide then and there, at age 12, that she wanted to go to Ross, but she made that dream a reality and now even owns property on the island. “It felt like home, and it became home,” she says. So it’s no surprise she tries to hire Ross grads whenever she can. Personal connection aside, her hiring choices also have something to do with unique traits developed at Ross that, together, make up a quality veterinarian. “It starts with the kind of person that goes to Ross, and accepts the challenge of moving to another country and living on the island that lacks the amenities you’d find in the US. That alone speaks to character,” she says. “Once they get there, Ross students face a different culture and atmosphere, all while going through a difficult curriculum, which makes them as good if not better veterinarians than those coming out of state schools in terms of skill, adaptability, confidence, and mental toughness.”
Today, Quarti’s position at Banfield Pet Hospital allows her to make visits to Ross’ campus two to three times per year to talk to students and let them know about the opportunities at Banfield available to them after graduation. She hopes to set the tone for other alumni to get involved, as well. “Reach out to the alumni council and get involved,” she encourages her fellow grads. “There are a lot of different opportunities in the form of events, webinars, coming back to the island for conferences and student events, as well as networking. It’s just a matter of reaching out.”
Alumni Magazine | 7
feature
A
nother class of DVM grads can now proudly call themselves Ross alumni. On May 21, 2016, the newest class of Ross graduates gathered in Coral Gables, FL, with family and friends to celebrate completing their DVM, and taking their next step in veterinary medicine. Interim Dean Guy St. Jean, DVM, MS, DipACVS reminded these graduates how impactful the veterinary field can be, and how their influence as professionals can go beyond just animal health. “We are privileged as veterinarians,” Dr. St. Jean said. “The education you have received provides you with the opportunity to not just influence animal health, but human health. I can predict that many of you will participate in making a difference for society—our global society—and I cannot wait to learn about what you will accomplish next.”
8 | Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine
A Bright Future for DVM Grads
Dr. St. Jean may not have to wait very long. According to commencement speaker Joseph Kinnarney, DVM, MS, American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) President, the future for veterinary medicine has never been brighter. “Never in the history of our world have there been more opportunities for veterinarians, and veterinary students, than there [are] today,”Dr. Kinnarney said. “Together, we can work to protect, promote, and advance this honorable profession and make it stronger, for both today and tomorrow.” He expressed his unwavering support for Ross graduates throughout his speech, and left the class of 2016 with a message to lead and inspire: “You’re our future—our next generation of veterinarians, and tomorrow’s leaders in veterinary medicine. We’re proud of the goals you have set, and the desire you have shown to serve both animals and people in a changing world,” he said. n
Alumni Magazine | 9
feature
SITTING DOWN WITH COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER AND AVMA PRESIDENT JOSEPH H. KINNARNEY This year, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine welcomed American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) President Joseph H. Kinnarney, DVM, MS to deliver the commencement address. Here’s what he had to say about challenging first impressions, tackling the issues of tomorrow, and the power of organization. What was your message to graduates at Ross’ commencement ceremony? My message, in a nutshell, was that I see the glass as half full. I see so many opportunities for veterinarians—now more than ever in the history of the world—and I see a group of students that are the most educated in the history of the world. So, there are opportunities out there, and they can do very well with them. The other message was that graduates need to step up and be leaders in our profession, and help lead us down this path of change and opportunities. Opportunities are out there and you can get them, and if you are part of the AVMA, we’ll be there with you all the way and be a part of the solutions we all need. You first traveled to Ross’ campus in 2000. What brought you to campus at that time? From 1999 to 2001, I was vice president of the AVMA. And, previously, there were no official visits of any kind from the AVMA to Ross. In 1999, the board changed that policy since most of the students graduating from Ross were coming back to the US to practice. The AVMA wanted to reach out and make Ross a part of the organization, and when the students graduated, we wanted to be there for them. I was elected vice president around this time, and I was the first under that new policy, so I made the first trip out. What did you expect to find when you got there? Not having seen things firsthand, you get hearsay. And St. Kitts isn’t the most metropolitan area in the world. So even
10 | Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine
though I tried to go with an open mind, I probably had a slightly negative view of what I would find. But it exceeded my expectations. I was thrilled to see what I found.
What did you find? What was your impression of the campus, students, and faculty? As far as the students, I could tell they had just bent over backwards to make sure I felt welcome, and without a doubt I had a great impression of them. They organized a catamaran with faculty, and we took 40 or 50 students out as well and went snorkeling. Anywhere you go, the students are the best of everything—all over the world. One part of campus that particularly stood out was the big lecture room where I delivered a presentation to 500 students, and behind me was the beautiful Caribbean. It was state-of-the-art, brand new, and technologically capable. Then, I remember going into the anatomy lab and seeing the technology there, and meeting with the faculty who were all predominantly from US schools. So I saw something impressive, and it was beyond my expectations. What do you think Ross graduates have to gain from AVMA membership? First of all, it’s a small profession, and we know from our members that they want us to advocate on their behalf. I, as president, am the spokesperson that represents 80 percent of the profession. Anything we advocate for, everyone benefits from. Being a part of that, Ross graduates enhance the numbers; by speaking as a group, and speaking together, we can get our messages across.
“I see so many opportunities for veterinarians—now more than ever in the history of the world—and I see a group of students that are the most educated in the history of the world. So, there are opportunities out there, and they can do very well with them.”
Plus, we want to have Ross graduates be a part of the solution. Look at any major issue—take debt and income, for example. We recently had a summit to look at steps we can take to help manage a debt-to-income ratio that’s currently at two-to-one. If we can get it down to 1.4-to-one, even that’s more manageable. That makes us an economically sound profession, and that’s something we need to do together. For another example, if you look at wellness, you’ll find that we are the highest suicide profession. How do we address the needs of our colleagues? It’s not just economical, but it’s also other stressors. We had a roundtable, for the first time, to deal with this and figure out how we as a group can come up with solutions to make us a stronger profession. That’s the voice of the association. A poll of our members shows that they want us to protect, promote, and advance. That means protecting through advocacy, but also maintaining the value of their degree and showing society what it is they offer. Our members are looking at us to do that, and that’s a collective thing we need to do together.
What do you hope Ross alumni will do in their own communities? Being involved with your state and local organizations, as well as the AVMA, is huge. If you look at our profession, we are not diverse—we are 96 percent white. That’s negative, because we’re not representing the image of this country. So, be a leader in your community and speak to schools about the positives of being a veterinarian. Getting out into the public is huge, as is looking at the issues and then
communicating with leaders about how to help these issues move forward. Ross has some great graduates and prominent alumni. Be involved.
What do you see as the most significant opportunities for growth in veterinary medicine? If we look at small animal medicine and surgery, we know that if you calculate the lifetime care of a pet—from birth through 16 years of age—it costs $17,000. Right now, people are spending just $4,000. We need to look at preventative care and promote it, and show clients the value of it. This is a great growth potential. Wellness is not just giving a vaccine. It’s giving an exam, taking blood pressure, providing dental care, diagnosing and treating obesity, and more. It’s not just treating the issues, it’s preventing them. What do you look forward to most from Ross? Ross graduates are joiners. They have been big joiners in the AVMA—last year 100 percent of the students became members. So one of the big things I look forward to is that continued trend, as well as Ross graduates stepping forward and filling leadership positions. n
Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine’s DVM degree program is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Education (AVMA COE) 1931 N. Meacham Road, Suite 100, Schaumburg, IL 60173 Tel: 800.248.2862 | Email: MMaresh@avma.org
Alumni Magazine | 11
profile
ROSS BOARD OF TRUSTEES
JOHN PAYNE
CEO and Founder Pet Health Innovations®/ American Humane Association
Payne is a healthcare executive whose career, which spans more than 40 years, has focused on the field of veterinary medicine. He currently sits on the Ross board of directors, helping the school fulfill its mission. Prior to joining Banfield in 2005, Payne was president and general manager of Bayer Healthcare’s North American Animal Health Division from 2000 to 2005 and a member of the Bayer Global Healthcare team. Payne then joined Banfield Pet Hospital as Senior Vice President, and later served as president and chief executive officer from 2007 to 2012. He was instrumental in helping Banfield grow through numerous initiatives, including his involvement in veterinary recruitment, strengthening industry partnerships, development of a new digital X-ray technology, development of the Hannah® Pharmaceutical line, and streamlining the practice’s logistic processes with MWI Veterinary Supply. His other leadership roles include past chairman of the board and executive board member for Animal Health Institute, and chairman of the board development committee for the KU Medical Center Authority Board. In 2012 he founded Pet Health Innovations, an animal health consulting organization that advises startup companies, and currently serves as chief executive officer. Shortly after, in 2014, Payne also founded Compassion-First Pet Hospitals (formerly Veterinary Specialists of North America), a family of more than two dozen pet hospitals comprised of a mix of specialty, emergency, general medicine and hybrid hospitals located throughout the United States. CompassionFirst’s mission is to provide the very best medicine and services to pets and their owners, while empowering individual growth and advancement within their family of employees. Compassion-First hospitals retain their unique identities and autonomies regarding medical decisions, while benefiting from the opportunity to share knowledge and maximize their resources as part of a dynamic network. Since 1999, Payne has been recognized with awards from the American Veterinarian Medical Association, CENSHARE (Center to Study Human-Animal Relationships and Environments at the University of Minnesota), and the FBI Citizen’s Academy. Payne is a recipient of the Distinguished Service Award from Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences, and received an award for Distinguished Business Leadership by Park University in Parkville, Mo. in 2004. A native of Philadelphia, Payne earned a bachelor’s degree in secondary education from Saint Bernard College, and an MBA from Rockhurst University. n
12 | Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine
profile
ROSS STUDENT EDITH JOVEL
THIS STUDENT DIDN’T GIVE UP. NOW SHE’S ON HER WAY TO HER DVM. When she was 12 years old, Edith Jovel traveled from her home in downtown Los Angeles to visit family in El Salvador. But in addition to reuniting with relatives, she saw something that would have a life-changing impact on her: neglected, malnourished dogs abandoned in the streets. “They looked so sick and emaciated,” says Jovel, who grew up with puppies of her own. “That’s when I decided I wanted to help animals.” Now, Jovel is on her way to doing just that at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. A first-generation college student whose parents emigrated from El Salvador, she is a recipient of the Eliza Ann Grier Scholarship, awarded to underrepresented minority students who demonstrate strong personal qualities of motivation and integrity as well as academic excellence. Jovel graduated from the University of California at Davis in 2008 with a degree in wildlife fish and conservation biology. She had originally planned to major in animal science, but a visit to the campus wildlife museum got her hooked. There, she had the opportunity to do a variety of internships and fieldwork, including a wood duck survey in the surrounding area; snake, reptile and herpetology surveys in Washington; and bird surveys in Chile. It was a far cry from the inner-city environment where she grew up. “I love soaking in nature and being outdoors,” Jovel says. “When I was younger, I was never really exposed to nature in that way. Being able to poke around in everything and immerse myself helped me appreciate my surroundings and the animals.” After her first round of applications to US vet schools didn’t pan out, Jovel refused to be deterred. “I said, okay, maybe I need a little more experience,” she says. Over the next several years, she gained far more than just “a little” experience. Jovel spent two years earning her associate’s degree from Los Angeles Pierce College to be a vet tech. After graduating, she worked at Los Alamitos Animal Hospital, eventually becoming one of the lead vet techs and specializing in emergency medicine, right up until she left for vet school. Now, having been on island in St. Kitts for about three months, Jovel is confident she made the right choice. “I love it here,” she says. “I’m happy I made the decision to come.” n
Alumni Magazine | 13
profile
ROSS FACULTY CHARLES WALLACE
MAKING CONNECTIONS Charles Wallace, DVM, MS, Dip, ACVS is a professor of large animal medicine and surgery as well as the interim dean of student affairs and alumni relations. Here, he discusses what brought him to the university over two decades ago, and how a lifetime of creating connections has landed him a new role at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. What was your path to Ross?
I graduated from Ohio State in June of 1966, and then I did an internship at the University of Minnesota for a year, spent three and a half years at the University of Melbourne, spent six months in private practice in New Zealand, and then returned to Ohio State to teach for four years. Then, I taught at the University of Georgia for 19 years before coming to Ross. Altogether, I’m celebrating my fiftieth anniversary of graduation from veterinary school this year. During that time, especially as we get a new class every four months here at Ross, I’ve taught about 100 classes of veterinary students.
When did you first come to Ross, and what drew you to the university? I first came to Ross in September of 1993. I was previously at the University of Georgia, and I wanted a job change. When I applied for the job at Ross, I didn’t even know where St. Kitts was. But I thought it would be something different and interesting, and since I had never been to the Caribbean before, I knew it would be a unique experience. I ended up getting the job, stayed for a year, decided to stay for two more, and here I am almost 25 years later. What made you stay? I enjoy interacting with the students and teaching, and when I first came here, the university’s primary focus was on teaching for many years. That was what kept
14 | Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine
me here. But, recently, our focus has expanded as a university to include more research, and my focus as an individual has expanded beyond teaching to also include administration.
What is your role as interim dean of student affairs and alumni relations? My primary role, apart from teaching, is to manage student affairs and, specifically, help students who have academic issues or who are requesting leave or have other problems. I work closely with my colleagues in student support areas to try and make sure we provide our students with whatever opportunities they need to ensure they’re successful in reaching their goal of becoming a veterinarian. How do you connect with alumni? I am on Facebook, and I actively try to stay in contact with a lot of alumni all over the country. I find that one of my roles in life has been to connect people—they may live down the street from one another, and not know each other, but I know them both and so I can connect them. I hope to continue to do this with alumni. Do you have a typical day? I typically arrive at the office around 7:15 a.m., and then I may or may not have a class at 8 a.m. The first thing I do is check emails and my calendar, and then my day is filled with meeting students. Meetings are
mostly focused on academic issues, and seeing if there’s anything I can do to help them in terms of overcoming their difficulties. We sometimes hold lunches with groups of students to see how things are going on campus, in a more general sense, and see if there’s anything administration can do to make it better. We also often have visitors come to the campus, either prospective or accepted students. They come and meet with me for about a half hour, and we talk about life on campus and life in St. Kitts. Then, I teach my classes in the afternoons or hold laboratories.
What classes do you teach? How are they different from what alumni may remember? I teach a few hours of swine nutrition in fourth semester, as part of an animal nutrition course. This used to be taught in the first semester, but was moved to the fourth semester about a year ago. Then, in the seventh semester, I teach food animal medicine and also have been helping teach the large animal surgery laboratory course. Now, we focus on surgery starting in the first semester, teaching hands-on skills and then developing those skills until the seventh semester when they get to work on the live animal. So, that is a big change. But this new way allows the level of skill to be maintained throughout. When our graduates leave here and go to clinics in the US or around the world, they have the same or better level of skills as those taught under the old program. How do you start developing those skills earlier? We have models for the students to practice on. Some are very basic: practicing suture tying, putting a needle into a vein, or inserting a needle into a muscle. These are all done on a model. So, we’re not using an animal for that. This skill is taught and then used on an animal later on. This trend, away from using live animals and switching over to models, has been developing over the last 10 to 20 years, and our school is one of the ones at the forefront of it. What do you want alumni to know about Ross’ students today? I think it’s important for alumni to know that we have
a very large student body. This is quite different from what many alumni may remember from many years ago. We also have many different clubs on campus that cater to almost every imaginable facet of veterinary medicine. Our students are very involved in these clubs and their activities.
Are there any new initiatives in the works you can tell me about? One of the things we’re trying to do is establish more scholarship opportunities for currently enrolled students, and we are hoping that our more successful alumni who have been in practice or their professional careers for years now may be able to help us establish some of these scholarships. If they’re interested, they can contact me directly at cwallace@rossvet.edu.kn. What are your goals for the students going forward? Generally, we want to keep the reputation of the Ross graduate at a very high level. In the past, our graduates have been recognized all over America as being very competent and, by and large, we want to maintain that reputation not only because it reflects upon them but also because it reflects upon our program as a whole. Is Dr. Wallace the professor different from Dr. Wallace the administrator? No, I think I’m pretty much the same person. I’m very laid back and my door is always open—unless I have a student or someone in here talking with me. So, I think my students know they can approach me and that I will be confidential in handling their issues and fair in my treatment of them. Across the board, my favorite part of my job is helping students who need help with whatever it is they need help with. Serving the student—that’s what makes me happy. Are there any personal interests you’d like to share? I still have a herd of Jersey cows I keep on a farm in Pennsylvania. I take mid-semester breaks, and see them and visit them. When you hear people talk about their fur babies, those are my fur babies. n
Alumni Magazine | 15
ALUMNI EVENTS MID-WESTERN VETERINARY CONFERENCE
FEBRUARY 2016
The 2016 Mid-Western Conference was held in the Heart of Columbus, OH at the Greater Columbus Convention Center. During the conference, Ross had the opportunity to take part in the Mid-Western Conference Veterinary Explosion Luncheon with alumnus Richard Berlinksi, DVM ’03. Dr. Berlinski is currently an Associate Veterinarian at the Toledo Zoo. In conjunction with MVC, the Alumni Association hosted an elegant Alumni Dinner on February 27, 2016 at the Hyde Park Steak House. The reception was open to all those who attended the conference, and local alumni. n
M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E!
JULY 2016
FAMILY FUN DAY
AUGUST 2016
On August 5th, Ross alumni from the tri-state area were invited to enjoy a family day of fun compliments of the department for Institutional Advancement and Alumni Relations. The event was an opportunity for graduates to use a summer Friday to bring their family to the Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, New Jersey. Graduates and their guests were treated to a day at the park, as well as a private Safari tour and private complimentary lunch in the Safari pavilion. Over a hundred participants attended the event along with Director of Institutional Advancement and Alumni Relations Stephen DeSalvo and other members of the alumni relations team. It was a great day to engage with our alumni and their families and an opportunity to take advantage of the beautiful summer weather! If you would like receive more information on how to attend our events or would like to make a suggestion of an interesting event idea please contact Jennifer LeFebvre at jenniferlefebvre@rossu.edu. n
Alumni and their families of all ages joined Jennifer LeFebvre, Assistant Director of Institutional Advancement and the Alumni Relations team on July 7 for a special Southern California alumni event. Alumni from both Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine and Ross University School of Medicine attended a complimentary lunch at the beautiful Disney resort, the Grand Californian. The intimate crowd brought regional classmates together and provided an opportunity to network while spending the day with their families. Each alumnus was given a ticket to a theme park of their choice for the day. It was truly a magical experience for everyone involved and we would like to extend a special thanks to our alumni ambassador leaders for spending the day with us. If you would like to find out more about being an alumni ambassador leader and receive exclusive invitations to these events please contact jenniferlefebvre@rossu.edu. n
16 | Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine
GRADUATION RECEPTION
MAY 2016
Ross graduates and their guests came together the day before graduation at a special reception—featuring, food, beverages, and a liberal dose of camaraderie—hosted by Ross’ alumni team. Held at the Cruz Building in Coconut Grove, FL, the event gave attendees a chance to relax and unwind before officially receiving their Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degrees at their May 21 graduation. Ross faculty members and colleagues were also in attendance. n
LAST CALL TO REGISTER
WIVC REGISTRATION LINK IS LIVE! REGISTRATION
www.cvent.com/d/jvqj8s/4W Alumni Magazine | 17
ALUMNI EVENTS
OUR NEW SITE HAS LAUNCHED!
After much planning and collecting of feedback over the previous year, we are excited to announce that Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine (Ross) has unveiled a brand new redesigned, responsive website with a new domain: veterinary.rossu.edu What you can expect from the new Ross website: • More intuitive navigation to find the information you need • Better integrated search functionality • Ability to more easily keep information up-to-date • Faster page loads • Enhanced mobile/tablet experience Be sure to check it out!
n
ROSS SOCIAL MEDIA Join our social networks to stay informed on all the latest Ross news, learn about alumni events and opportunities in your area and jump start your professional career!
Facebook.com/RUSVMalumni Twitter.com/RUSVMalumni LinkedIn.com/in/ RUSVMAlumniAssociation Flickr.com/RUSVMalumni
18 | Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine
CLASS NOTES COL. CAROLINE TOFFOLI, DVM (’89) Caroline Toffoli received her DVM in 1989, and after losing her veterinary practice to a fire in the 1990s, she joined the Army Reserves. Today, Toffoli is commander of the 399th Combat Support Hospital in Devens, Massachusetts, where she supervises the training of 600 medical and support professionals. From 2003-05, while serving as a staff veterinarian of the 8th Medical Brigade in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, she helped rebuild Iraq’s agricultural infrastructure, which had been destroyed during the war. She also organized an unprecedented international conference to address the Middle East’s deteriorating veterinary system—the International Veterinary Conference in Kuwait City—which brought together more than 50 veterinary leaders from around the globe. Toffoli received her undergraduate degree from Quinnipiac University, and was presented with Quinnipiac’s Distinguished Alumni Award in the fall for the remarkable global contributions she made during her career. For the full story, head to: www.qu.edu/ quinnipiac-stories/rebuilding-after-war/
KEEP US = in the = PICTURE
Share your photos, news, awards, recognition, promotions, retirement, and family news.
AMY LIPNICKI, DVM (’04) Dr. Lipnicki, was recently nominated by her peers and selected by independent judges as one of Brooklyn’s Women of Distinction—females deemed the best and brightest in their chosen professions. Dr. Lipnicki, who is better known as Dr. Amy, hosts a dental awareness month in February and performs microchipping. After working for more than 12 years as a staff veterinarian with the Marine Park Veterinarian Group, as well as three years as a staff emergency doctor, Dr. Lipnicki is the resident doctor at the Mill Basin Veterinary Clinic in Brooklyn, NY. Her motto: “Only a person who loves a challenge would take on a patient who can’t tell them where it hurts.” ANDREA DATTELLAS, DVM (’11) Dr. Dattellas’ practice, the Fulton Animal Hospital, in Fulton, NY, was honored with a 2016 Small Business Excellence Award. The award recognizes businesses based on their longevity, innovation, sales growth, increased employment, ability to overcome adversity or community contributions. After graduation, she headed back to Fulton Animal Hospital, where she already had relationships with the staff and clientele from volunteering and interning there. Once Dr. Dattellas was on board, she began working with the SUNY Oswego Small Business Development Center to buy the animal hospital once the original owner retired. Now, Dr. Dattellas is the sole veterinarian at the practice, where she’s hired additional staff and expanded the services.
rusvmalumni@rossu.edu Alumni Magazine | 19
ROSS EVENTS CALENDAR AUG US T August 5–9
OC TOBER AVMA Conference, San Antonio, TX
October 1
Enrollment Info Seminar, Hartford, CT
Enrollment Info Seminar, Houston, TX
October 8
Enrollment Info Seminar, San Juan, PR
August 5
IAAR Eastern Regional Alumni Event, Jackson, NJ
August 6
Enrollment Connection, New York, NY
Enrollment Connection, Miami, FL
October 15
Enrollment Info Seminar, Vancouver, BC
Enrollment Connection, Chicago, IL
Enrollment Info Seminar, Washington, DC
Enrollment Connection, Toronto, ON
IAAR Alumni Dinner & Reception, Dallas, TX
October 19
Enrollment Info Seminar, Baton Rouge, LA
Enrollment Connection, Dallas, TX
October 29
Enrollment Info Seminar, New Brunswick, NJ
August 8
AVMA Conference Reception, San Antonio, TX
August 9–10
AVAP Conference, San Antonio, TX
August 26–29
CVC Conference, Kansas City, MO
SEPTEMBER
NOVEMBER November 5–11
WIVC Conference
November 5
Enrollment Info Seminar, Jacksonville, FL
Enrollment Info Seminar, Montreal, QC
Enrollment Info Seminar, Irvine, CA
Enrollment Info Seminar, Miramar, FL
November 12
Enrollment Info Seminar, San Antonio, TX
Enrollment Info Seminar, St. Louis, MO
September 5
White Coat Ceremony, St. Kitts
September 17
Enrollment Info Seminar, San Francisco, CA
September 24
Enrollment Info Seminar, Los Angeles, CA
IAAR Regional Chapter Dinner, Los Angeles, CA
Enrollment Info Seminar, Toronto, CA
Enrollment Info Seminar, New York, NY
DECEMBER
IAAR Regional Chapter Dinner, New York, NY
December 3–7
Enrollment Info Seminar, Chicago, IL
IAAR Regional Chapter Dinner, Chicago, IL
September 29
SWVS Conference, Ft. Worth, TX
20 | Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine
AAEP Conferece, Orlando, FL
IT ALL STARTED HERE
Your alumni association wants to keep you connected to your friends, former classmates, colleagues, and all those who made your experience here memorable. And when it comes to memories, there’s no better place to start than St. Kitts— a unique campus environment that allows our students to simultaneously master the study of animal health and venture beyond the classroom to participate in impactful research on wildlife, livestock, habitats, and diseases. You and others took your first, tentative steps toward the practice of veterinary medicine on this quiet, picturesque island. You forged friendships. You earned victories.
No matter where you ultimately ended up, it all started in St. Kitts.
Office of Institutional Advancement & Alumni Relations 485 US Hwy 1 South Building B, 4th Floor Iselin, New Jersey 08830
Telephone: +1-869-465-4161 Email: rusvmalumni@rossu.edu veterinary.rossu.edu
RossVetSchool
SPIRIT STORE Ross is proud to announce the launch of our new online apparel store at: vetspiritstore.rossu.edu, where you’ll find a variety of school-spirit items, great for gifts and everyday life. Feel free to take a few moments to look around, and show off your Ross spirit today!
E-Gift Certificates are also available, if you would like to send a gift! For comprehensive consumer information, visit www.rossu.edu/student-consumer-info. Š2016 Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. All rights reserved.