I believe making an impact is something many strive to do—and many succeed in doing! Living a life with purpose plays an important role in making a positive impact. Our purpose helps us focus our energy properly. When the veterinary team commits to a purposeful life, ideas are accepted and nurtured, and we become empowered. Living a life of purpose aids veterinary team members in knowing who we are, where we should go, what we should do, and why we should do it.
Each year, the Dr. Earl H. Rippie Veterinary Nurse Leadership Scholarship recognizes veterinary nurses/technicians who have made a positive impact on the profession or in their practice. Congratulations to the 2023 Dr. Earl H. Rippie Veterinary Nurse Leadership Scholarship winners, and thank you for making a positive impact on your hospitals, communities, patients, and profession!
Dr. Earl H. Rippie Veterinary Nurse Leadership Scholarship Winners
Julie Dugmore, RVN With 30-plus years in veterinary nursing, Julie’s current role as Director of Veterinary Nursing at the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons has her overseeing a team to support the Veterinary Nurse Council. She also serves as Chair of the Accreditation Committee for Veterinary Nurse Education and has worked to develop veterinary nurse training across the European Union.
Tricia Gorham, CVT After graduating with a degree in veterinary technology from St. Petersburg College in 1991, Tricia worked at a veterinary clinic before transitioning to a teaching role at her former school, where she now serves as the veterinary technology program director. Tricia has also developed a study abroad program and serves on a range of committees to further the role of veterinary nurses.
Debbie Whitten, LVT As a research assistant at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Debbie performs primate anesthesia, monitors a wide range of procedures, and maintains laboratory safety and compliance. She has extensive experience in the field, including as a veterinary technology instructor and in various leadership roles for local, state, and national veterinary organizations.