Small Animal Clinic Technicians Honored

On Friday, May 6, 2011 the small animal clinic veterinary technicians at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences were honored in several different categories with awards voted on by the fourth year veterinary students. This year 12 awards were received by nine different technicians and support staff.  

Dr. Eleanor M. Green, Carl B. King Dean of Veterinary Medicine, was in full support at the event recalling that she is a "technician at heart."

"Throughout the years I always knew that my success stemmed from the support of the technicians," explains Green. "I cannot imagine our program without the help and service you show our veterinary students and the patients of the hospitals on a daily basis. I have always been well aware of the impact you have throughout this program, and I am very grateful for each and every one of you." 

Jason Ferrell, a fourth year veterinary student and the vice president for the fourth year student body, was on hand to present the awards. "On behalf of the other fourth year veterinary students, we know that we could not have completed our education without your support," says Ferrell. "For that we are truly appreciative of your guidance." 

The first three awards were presented to Jean Laird, veterinary technician II. Laird received the best all around small animal medicine technician award, best teacher award, and the most helpful award. Wendy Greathouse, veterinary technician III, was presented with the best all around small animal surgery technician award. Then, Hollye Callis, veterinary radiological technician I, received the best all around small animal radiology technician award. Lori Carpenter, veterinary technician I, was honored with the best all around small animal ICU/triage technician award. The award for the best all around small animal anesthesia technician went to Kathleen Maki, veterinary technician I. Cassandra Hensley, veterinary technician I, received the best all around small animal operating room technician award. Dennis Hargett, customer service associate, was presented with the best overall small animal non-clinical support staff award. Joshua Freeman, animal caretaker II, received the best small animal support service technician award. The best small animal patient advocate award went to Liz Kelley, veterinary technician II. Katy Waddell, veterinary technician III, completed the award ceremony with her most service oriented award.  

A lunch reception followed the ceremony with food provided by Purina. Jean Laird, Dana Whittaker, and Patty Vychopen organized the event.

From Top Down: Dean Green and Jason Ferrell present the certificates to Jean Laird. Wendy Greathouse. Hollye Callis. Dean Green and Jason Ferrell present the certificate to Lori Carpenter. Kathleen Maki. Dean Green and Jason Ferrell present the certificate to Cassandra Hensley. Dean Green and Jason Ferrell present the certificate to Dennis Hargett. Dean Green and Jason Ferrell present the certificate to Joshua Freeman. Dean Green and Jason Ferrell present the certificate to Liz Kelley. Katy Waddell.