Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Fall 2021, Featured, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Improving Health Literacy in Veterinary Medicine

Christina Melvin CVT, LVT, MPH, EdD

Dr. Christina Melvin works as a full-time high school biomedical science instructor and part-time general practice veterinary nurse in Northern Virginia. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Worcester State University, Master of Public Health from the University of New England, and Doctorate in Education for Health Professions from A.T. Still University. She is a CVT in Massachusetts and LVT in Virginia. Dr. Melvin’s professional interests include One Health, health literacy, and health education. She previously started and directed a high school veterinary assistant program in Massachusetts, and is passionate about introducing veterinary medical careers to young students.

Refraining from using medical jargon, presenting clients with written and visual materials, and employing the teach-back method will make sure your clients are on the same page as the veterinary team.

Summer 2021, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Areas of Needed Focus in Veterinary Medicine

Erin A. Spencer MEd, CVT, VTS (ECC)

Erin has a degree in veterinary technology (2001) and a master’s degree in education (2015). She earned her veterinary technician specialty in emergency and critical care in 2011. In 2009, Erin began volunteering with the Rural Area Veterinary Services program; in 2012, she accepted a full-time role. Erin spends 4 weeks each summer participating in field clinics on Native reservations in western states. Currently an assistant professor at the University of Massachusetts Veterinary Technology program, Erin is past president of the Massachusetts Veterinary Technician Association and the current president of National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA).

Coming to terms with your implicit bias and privilege is difficult. That doesn’t mean it isn’t important in creating a more inclusive workplace and profession. The veterinary profession is recognizing this effort and making strides to address DEI.

Spring 2021, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Examining Racial Diversity in the Profession

Kristi Fender

Kristi Fender, former editor of dvm360 magazine, has spent 20 years covering animal health and veterinary medicine. She holds a master’s degree in journalism from the University of Kansas and lives in Shawnee, Kansas, with her family, including 2 feisty shelter rescues: an old shepherd mix and a young calico-tabby.

While the reasons for the lack of diversity in veterinary medicine are complex and awareness of the need for change is growing, experts say complacency with the status quo risks the vibrancy and wellbeing of the profession.