STUDENT AMERICAN VETERINARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION (SAVMA)
The Student American Veterinary Medical Association (SAVMA) was created in 1969 as the national organization of students, which has enabled individual Student Chapters of the AVMA to function effectively as a single unit on the national level.
Currently, SAVMA is comprised of 36 student chapters at accredited veterinary medical schools/colleges and one student association organization in the Caribbean (SAVMA @ RUSVM). In total, we represent a total of over 16,000 veterinary student members and associate members.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A SAVMA MEMBERSHIP?
Automatic free membership to the AVMA for the first year following graduation from veterinary school
Reduced prices for subscriptions to the AVMA journals: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA) and American Journal of Veterinary Research (AJVR)
Networking Opportunities: Legislative Fly-In, Veterinary Leadership Experience, Educational SAVMA Symposium and AVMA Convention; AVMA Mentoring System
Eligibility for Professional Development Funds (PDF) to travel to externships and conferences
Scholarships, Externship Stipends
Reduced rates for AVMA conventions
Free Liability Coverage provided by AVMA PLIT
Health Insurance Plans starting as low as $22/month provided by AVMA Life
ROSS VET STUDENT GOVERNMENT EXECUTIVE BOARD
SAVMA @ RUSVM Officers
Ricardo was born and raised in Miami, Florida. Ricardo is a first-generation college graduate and American with his entire family immigrating from Cuba. Ricardo attended St. Thomas University in Miami where he received a Bachelors in Biological science. While attending St. Thomas University Ricardo participated in baseball, as well as research regarding COVID-19 and applying it to the veterinary field where he presented his research to the Life sciences of South Florida. During his undergraduate time, Ricardo spent time giving back to South Florida’s youth by joining several academies, baseball clubs, and outreach programs involving charities, and churches. Ricardo began his path in Veterinary medicine working for Gomara Animal clinic, a Ross vet himself, who has assisted Ricardo in molding the vision of what it means to be an amazing Veterinarian. Ricardo, although keeping an open mind, has special interests in mixed small and exotic animal medicine, as well as wildlife conservation.
Josephine is from Miami, Florida, where she attended Florida International University (FIU) and received a bachelor’s degree in biology. She was an active member of the FIU Pre-Vet society, where she was first introduced to world of veterinary medicine. During her undergraduate years, she worked in various small clinics where she was able to gain hands on experience as a veterinarian technician and further her passion of small animal medicine. Furthermore, she volunteered for several rescues in Miami where she fostered many animals and found them loving homes. Whenever she’s not studying, she spends her free time being a couch potato and watching Netflix! While at Ross, Josephine has shown interests in small animal medicine, shelter medicine, and dermatology. After graduation, she hopes to move back to Miami and utilize her DVM to serve her community and hopefully make a positive impact.
Emily is from Metuchen, New Jersey. She attended Rutgers University School of Environmental and Biological Sciences where she earned her B.S. in Animal Science/Pre-veterinary medicine. Leading up to veterinary school, Emily was involved in numerous animal experiences including training Seeing Eye dogs, working in a wolf dog sanctuary, doing laboratory research, and working in various primary care and emergency hospitals. It was through these experiences that she found her love for small animal emergency medicine and surgery. Aside from her involvement with SAVMA, Emily enjoys being a part of many different aspects of campus including being a Teaching Assistant and a member of many clubs such as Surgery Club, VIDA, Student Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society, and Diagnostic Imaging Club. Outside of school, Emily enjoys her time exploring the island, volunteering with the St. Kitts Sea Turtle Monitoring Network, snorkeling, and SCUBA diving. Although she is exploring many fields of veterinary medicine, she currently hopes to one day be a board-certified small animal surgeon.
Karla is from Miami, FL and later moved to Tallahassee, FL where she received her bachelor's degree in Environment and Society with a Minor in Biology from Florida State University. While living in Tallahassee, Karla worked as a veterinary technician in a small animal clinic and an animal rescuer at a wildlife rehabilitation center. As a wildlife rescuer she was able to exercise her passion of working with reptiles and opossums. Outside of veterinary medicine, Karla participated in queer and minority advocacy organizations. In the future she hopes to pursue a career in zoological medicine and use her platform to make veterinary medicine more accessible to minority populations.
Madison was born and raised in Brampton, Ontario Canada. Madison attended Acadia University in Wolfville Nova Scotia Canada where she received a Bachelor of Science majoring in Biology & French with a minor in Chemistry. During her time at Acadia, Madison was varsity athlete (Women’s rugby), club athlete (women’s hockey), Research Assistant and Animal Care Assistant for the Biology department and a Teaching assistant for the Languages department. While completing her degree, Madison also spent her free time volunteering and working at the Wolfville Animal hospital as a veterinary assistant and receptionist. Through these experiences, Madison developed a passion for One Health and veterinary medicine. Since beginning her journey at RUSVM, Madison has become fond of mixed animal medicine, and she is excited to continue her education through the various clubs and courses Ross has to offer.
Shelby is from Boynton Beach, Florida, and attended Auburn University where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Organismal Biology. During her time at Auburn, Shelby volunteered with the Southeastern Raptor Center where she gained valuable experience in raptor rehabilitation and conservation. After a study abroad in Australia, she developed an interest in exotic animal medicine. Attending Ross University allows her to fulfill her love of travel while pursuing her lifelong dream. Currently, Shelby is interested in mixed animal medicine and exotic animal medicine.
Robyn was born and raised in the exciting city of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada where she was an avid little soccer player. Throughout her studies, she was fortunate enough to continue playing competitive soccer at the university level where she also completed her Bachelor of Science undergraduate degree at the University of Manitoba. She has always had the desire to travel since traveling with the soccer team so applying to an international school like RUSVM was more enticing already. It was not a straightforward path to veterinary medicine because architecture is always at the back of her mind as well as many other interests, but she loves the challenge and desire to help those in need without a voice. She wishes to be that voice for wildlife and exotics as they are highly misunderstood, almost as misunderstood as she was when attempting to get into a veterinary school. Robyn truly wishes to be a positive light to her colleagues while doing all that she can for all the animals around her that she will encounter on this DVM journey.
Vivian was born and raised in the Bay Area, specifically San Jose, CA. She will be the first in her family to pursue a graduate degree. Grew up playing competitive basketball and supporting the Golden State Warriors. Vivian played collegiate basketball at San Jose City College before transferring to UCLA, where she received a Bachelor of Science in Biology. After graduating in 2018, she took 3 gap years working at a small animal general practice and specialty/emergency hospital. Worked in many specialties but spent most of the time in the neurology department. Vivian’s partner in crime, who is a 16-year-old Chihuahua mix named Suni, developed many health issues and had to see multiple specialists at her work. From those experiences, she was intrigued and hopes to pursue a small animal specialty, but unsure which one.
Liam was born in the Bronx, NYC, then raised in Poughkeepsie, New York. He graduated from SUNY Binghamton with a B.S. in Biological Sciences, with a focus in molecular biology. During his time at Binghamton, Liam enjoyed time in the laboratory conducting research as well as working with the school's robust Pre-Veterinary Society as its treasurer. This afforded him the opportunity to gain valuable experience in the lab and with large animals. Most of Liam's clinical experience lies in general practice and secondary referral centers. Outside of the classroom, Liam enjoys snorkeling, SCUBA diving, and hiking with his dog Flan. After graduation, Liam hopes to pursue an internship and residency in small animal surgery at the Animal Medical Center in New York City.
Marianne was born and raised in Racine, Wisconsin. She decided at a young age to follow in her grandfather’s footsteps to become a veterinarian. Marianne graduated from Pensacola Christian College with a B.S. in Pre-medicine and a minor in Spanish. During her summer break, she worked at her grandfather’s old general practice as an assistant. After graduating, she took a year off to gain more veterinary experience and volunteered as a vet assistant at the Wisconsin Humane Society campus in Racine, and worked as a technician at Wisconsin Veterinary Referral Center (WVRC) in Somers, Wisconsin. While working as a technician at WVRC, she found her love of emergency medicine and has decided to pursue an internship and residency in this specialty after graduating from vet school. During her free time, Marianne likes to practice Judo, which she has been doing since middle school, and SCUBA, which is a new hobby she found in the Caribbean.
Adrian Hatche was born and raised in Brooklyn , NY. Adrian graduated from Utica College with a Bachelors of Science in Biology. She then went on to work her way up from assistant to lead ICU technician at a variety of general practices and specialty hospitals in NY. Eight years later, she applied to RUSVM to fulfill her dream career as a mixed practice veterinarian. Having experience in many different veterinary environments, Adrian has come to find her heart in many aspects of veterinary medicine. Along with this, the experience of working with so many different individuals in the veterinary field has always sparked a deeper interest in the welfare of those within her work communities. She feels that hard work can play negatively in regard to mental well-being and keeping up morale. She decided to become a Student Wellness officer because she feels that she can identify with the common struggles of students and she wants to promote the network of support and outlets that students need to get by on their journey. As a Student Wellness officer, Adrian hopes to provide a “breath of fresh air” for students, to keep up moral and positive energy amongst all.
Amir was born in Iran and moved to America when he was young. Eventually after his family settled down in Jacksonville, FL he pursued his education in the medical field. The first step was obtaining his bachelor’s degree from University of North Florida. During his time there, he did research that involved working with the Jacksonville Zoo to monitor and determine alligator behavior and movement patterns. He also did research through UNF regarding many other alligator programs they had going on across the state of Florida. After his time at UNF, he pursued working in the veterinarian field where his time was spent educating himself on the practicing side of medicine. After spending years working with animals, he decided it was time to finally go after his dream and become a D.V.M. He hopes to eventually own his own small animal practice and build a ranch for older and forgotten dogs.
Zoey is from Yorktown Heights, New York. She attended the University of Delaware for her undergraduate studies, majoring in Pre-Veterinary Medicine and Animal Biosciences, and minoring in Public Health. During her time at UD, Zoey was both a Sister and the Standards chair of the Sigma Alpha Professional Agricultural Sorority and was the Secretary of the Veg Club. Zoey likes to say she has grown up in a veterinary hospital since her father, a Ross alum, opened his own hospital when she was young, sparking her dream of becoming a Veterinarian. Zoey has also spent hundreds of hours both shadowing and working at the Veterinary Emergency Group and hopes to become an emergency veterinarian post-graduation. In her free time, Zoey likes to spend time with her cat, Willow, and relax on the beach.
Celest is from Hollywood, Florida, about 25 minutes away from Miami. Celest attended the University of Central Florida where she received a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences and Biology. While attending UCF, Celest served on the executive boards for The Gospel and Cultural Choir as well as the Phi Eta Sigma Honor Society. She has spent her time making the most of her academic career by involving herself in volunteer opportunities, both within her community and internationally as an annual volunteer with the Nicaraguan Medical Mission. She has also had the opportunity to work under several talented veterinarians in the field, of whom helped her to refine her dream to work with zoo/exotic animal species. As Celest continues pursuing her goals and aspirations here at Ross University, she hopes to become a valuable asset to the community and further develop her professional identity as a future Doctor of Veterinary Medicine.
SAVMA @ RUSVM GENERAL BOARD
Your elected SAVMA class representatives and other additional liaisons make up the General Board and have office terms of one semester.
Tasha is from the Lake Tahoe area where she grew up as a wild mountain child. Tasha attended Sierra Community College and later transferred to the University of Nevada, Reno to earn a bachelor’s in biology with a chemistry minor. After undergrad, she worked in several small animal clinics and found her love for veterinary medicine. She had originally intended to go into animal conversation, but that changed shortly after joining the vet med world. Prior to her acceptance to Ross University, she was in the process of gaining her veterinary technician’s license. She is still finding her passion in small animal medicine, but she’s still finding out where her passions take her during her time in the DVM program
Bethany Clendennin is from Nashville, Tennessee. She attended Austin Peay State University, where she completed degrees in biology and agriculture. During her time at APSU, she was president of the Delta Tau Alpha honor society. Bethany grew up on a small cattle production farm. This is where her passion for animals and medicine was harvested. She always got the most joy from spending time taking care of the various animals at the production. Bethany chose Ross because of their accelerated curriculum and strong alumni reputation.
First Semester General Board - Tylan Elliot and Jessica Abdmessih Tylan is originally from South Africa but now calls Tampa FL home. Having grown up on game farms and nature reserves, Tylan developed a love of animals and wildlife at a very young age. Unfortunately, he
was not able to follow his passion for animal care as a career but instead chose to follow his artistic talents. After having obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Graphic design and animation straight out of high school, he quickly ascended the corporate ladder, but always felt unfulfilled. Upon moving to the USA, he was afforded the opportunity to pursue his real dream of becoming a veterinarian. Tylan set to work completing the bulk of his prerequisites at Shoreline Community College and during this time, he also worked at an equine ambulatory clinic in Monroe WA, as well as a small animal clinic in downtown Seattle. Armed with his passion, academics, and numerous years of professional experience in multiple fields of employment, he applied to RUSVM, where he graciously accepted a seat as part of the May 2022 class. Tylan is deeply committed to obtaining his DVM here at Ross University School of Veterinary medicine and has also joined many of the clubs in hopes of learning all there is to know about veterinary medicine. At the moment he has his sights set on becoming a board-certified equine surgeon but is open to any and all possibilities he may encounter on his journey here at Ross.
Jessica is from a small town in New Jersey. She grew up with an innate love for animals and chose the path to become a veterinarian at a young age. In 2021, she graduated from Rutgers University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Animal Science. Prior to attending Ross, Jessica worked in a small animal practice for 3 years and spent a lot of time with the animals on her campus farm and local animal shelter. Jessica loves spending time in nature, so becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine on an island is her ideal situation. In her spare time, she enjoys going to the beaches, watching the sunset from the Southeast Peninsula, and going to Saturday morning yoga at Coconut farm. Being a first-generation student and witnessing the sacrifices that her parents have endured to give Jessica a good future, has given her a passion to give back to the community and help others. She is truly grateful to be a part of a Veterinary School that has ample opportunities for community outreach through its various clubs. Jessica is keeping an open mind as to what field she intends to enter after earning her DVM. She is excited to keep exploring the many options through the opportunities that Ross has to offer.
Erin is from Central Florida. Erin attended Seminole State College before transferring to the University of North Florida. At the University of North Florida Erin received a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science. Originally Erin had an interest in human medicine. While working toward her undergraduate degree Erin provided medical foster care for an animal rescue. This combination of medicine and her love of animals sparked her initial interest in veterinary medicine. Since childhood Erin has been involved in the local chapter of United States Pony Club, this organization provided leadership opportunities and sponsored partnerships with equine professionals. Involvement in this organization, as well as a lifelong passion for science, provided the foundation for Erin into enter the world of veterinary medicine. Erin started her transition to veterinary medicine working as a receptionist at her local animal hospital. This job provided the opportunity to train as an assistant, and eventually work as a veterinary technician. Years of work experience as a veterinary technician, a lifelong love of animals, and a passion for medicine has prepared Erin for this journey to DVM here at Ross University School of Veterinary medicine.
Nickolaus Ayers is from Gulf Shores, Alabama. Nickolaus attended Auburn University at Montgomery where he received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology and another Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemistry. While at AUM, Nickolaus held leadership positions of numerous clubs he was a part of. These include the University Honors Program, AED (Pre-Health Honors Society), and BBB (Biology Honors Society). Nickolaus has worked in the veterinary medicine industry for most of his high school, undergraduate, and post graduate years spread between multiple clinics in central and south Alabama. Most of his experiences are in small animal medicine, but his lifelong dream and passion has always been to be an exotic/zoo veterinarian. Since being admitted to RUSVM, Nickolaus has also gained interests in marine veterinary medicine as well as veterinary conservation medicine. Nickolaus looks forward to the years here at RUSVM to continue to develop as a future veterinarian as well as a person while ultimately making a difference on campus in addition to the veterinary medicine career field.
Cardinal - Hello! My name is Cardinal, and I am one of the Blue Semester's class rep. This will be my third semester repping, and I have loved getting to know/becoming a resource for my classmates, being a part of SAVMA to help create change and growth and staying involved on campus. I am from Orlando, Florida, I love to do anything water related such as swimming and free-diving, and I have an interest in small animal emergency medicine.
Jamie is from Bakersfield, California. She attended her local community college, Bakersfield College before graduating from the University of California, Davis with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Minor in Communication. Even as a child, Jamie had a strong desire to work closely with animals and at 17, she started working at a local small animal practice. Here and through numerous opportunities at UC Davis, Jamie gained experience working with large & small animals in emergency and primary care settings. While Jamie is interested in many fields of work, she ultimately hopes to one day go into equine medicine. When she’s not studying, you can find her enjoying the sun by the water or spending time with the kennel dogs on campus as a kennel companion.
Alexandria - Hello Rossies! If you are an Orange Otter I am proud to be your class representative alongside our fearless leader William Tsai, thank you to all those who voted for us! I was born and raised in New York and have been working at animal hospitals since the age of 15; like most of us here, I fell in love with veterinary medicine. Most of my experience is in small animal general practice, as well as some specialty and large animal sprinkled in. Both my aunt and uncle are Rossie's (class of ‘04) and my lil’cousin is currently a Blue Beluga, so you could say it’s a family thing. I love the island, this program, and most of all my amazing classmates. Catch me at Discovery during the day and Shawarma King at 3am, don’t be shy!
William was born in Taipei, Taiwan and moved to the U.S. for better opportunities where he completed part of primary and secondary education in California and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from UC Davis. He is an Eagle Scout and veterinary technician in a companion animal practice for 5 years prior to attending Ross. His hobbies include hiking, gardening, fishing, and cooking. William had set his eyes on becoming a veterinarian ever since he was a child working on his grandfather’s farm. His interest is poultry and small animal cardiology and he is aiming to become a cardiologist and practice owner in the near future.
Robert Hutto is from Biloxi Mississippi where he fell in love with both animals and the ocean. He earned his bachelor's in marine biology at the University of Southern Mississippi and went on to work as a veterinary technician for five years gaining experience in emergency, general practice, exotics, and wildlife. He started attending Ross in January of 2021 where he serves as treasurer of the Ross chapter of WAVMA and class representative for red semester.
McKenna is from a small town located in Virginia where she grew up on a farm. McKenna attended Richard Bland Community College where she got her Associate’s Degree with an emphasis in Science. She later went back to school to become a Licensed Veterinary Technician through Penn Foster College. Prior to accepting her acceptance to Ross University, she had a decade of years’ experiences in small animal clinics that ranged from general practice, emergency, and specialty hospitals. After years of involvement in the veterinary field, she decided to expand her knowledge and go back to school to become a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. She strives to then continue her studies after receiving her DVM from Ross University of Veterinary Medicine with an internship, later a residency, and finally become a board-certified specialist in her preferred area of expertise. She has high hopes that her student career here at Ross will provide her with the knowledge and skills needed to further reach her goals and dreams.
Storm is from Edina, Missouri, a small town in North-East Missouri. Storm attended the University of Missouri-Columbia where he received a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science. While at Mizzou, Storm participated as a Teaching Assistant (TA) for numerous courses within the Equine Department that allowed students hands-on opportunities in handling, breeding, training, and behavior. Following his undergraduate education, he went on to receive a Master of Science in Agriculture from Northwest Missouri State University. Through Storm's previous pre-veterinary school experiences, he has developed interests in mixed animal medicine, specifically in Equine Theriogenology that he hopes will continue to develop during his time spent here at Ross Vet.
Peyton is from a small, southwest suburb of Chicago, Illinois. She graduated from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio where she earned a Bachelor of Art degree in Biological Sciences. Throughout her years prior to veterinary school, she gained animal experience from a variety of opportunities -- many small/large animal hospitals, a service dog training program, a South Africa study abroad program; however, her favorite was as an intern at Sarvey Wildlife Care Center in Washington state where she worked primarily with the raptors and raccoons. In addition to being SAVMA secretary the past three semesters, she also is the ambassador for Community Veterinary Services, representing one of the small animal hospitals she has spent majority of her summers at working and learning at. Peyton is also a member of the Equine Club and Surgery Club at RUSVM to help expand her knowledge and experiences while attending veterinary school. Although she is interested in many fields of work, she has found a love for anesthesia and hopes to become a board-certified anesthesiologist in the future.
Kevin Ramírez Gómez is from San Juan, Puerto Rico. He graduated from University of Puerto Rico Rio Piedras Campus with a bachelor’s degree in Cellular Molecular Biology. He has always been interested in studying veterinary medicine, with the idea that one day he will make a difference in animal welfare. He started his journey at Ross in VetPrep and is now close to finishing his pre-clinical years. Kevin seeks to specialize in Surgery or Emergency Medicine. Besides being the class representative for his seventh semester, he is also on the SAVMA General Board, part of the Diversity Committee and member of several other clubs at the school. During his free time, he goes scuba diving around the island and loves hiking with his island dog, Benito.
Sam Devine is from Cumberland, Maine. He graduated from College of the Holy Cross with a degree in Cell Biology and Spanish. He also was an active member of the Holy Cross Division I Swimming & Diving Team. After working in the ER at Tufts University in Massachusetts, Sam applied to Ross University and began in the Summer of 2020. He loves to spend his time meeting other Rossies by being a TA for many courses including physiology, pathology and diagnostic imaging. In the future he hopes to specialize in small animal internal medicine or dermatology. Outside of the classroom, he enjoys visiting Nevis, listening to broadway musicals and grabbing a Rituals Iced Mocha!
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FUND
The Professional Development Fund is a program under the Student Government Association for current Ross Vet students that rewards performing activities affiliated with Ross Vet, using a points-based system, by providing funding towards professional development opportunities. Professional development opportunities can include, but are not limited to conferences, externships, foreign education programs, internships, symposiums, or anything deemed for professional or career development.
Students who have completed at least one semester at Ross Vet may apply for funding.
PDF Guidelines
ROSS VET STUDENT CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS
With over 20 active Ross Vet school clubs and organizations representing a variety of interests, it’s easy to get involved at Ross Vet. Two SAVMA Activities Representatives coordinate the overall activities schedule for students and are responsible for determining the schedule for both activities and club fundraising.
OFFICIALLY RECOGNIZED STUDENT CLUBS & STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS
The American Association of Bovine Practitioners (AABP) is the largest organization on campus, with approximately 250 members and growing! Here on campus, we offer a multitude of wet labs including calf handling, calf watch with our pregnant cows during our calving seasons, dehorning, palpation trips to local St. Kitts farms, body condition scoring, and breeding of our campus herd. Additionally, we provide the opportunity for our members to become AI (artificial insemination) certified through Select Sires. We promote excellence within this field of medicine and help our members to gain exceptional bovine handling skills.
The student chapter of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) at Ross Vet is a nationally recognized, affiliate chapter of the American Association of Equine Practitioners. Our mission is to enhance the educational opportunities of the professional students at Ross Vet in the field of equine medicine and health, to inform students about veterinary-related problems currently affecting the horse industry, and to promote the exchange of professional knowledge among students and practitioners for the advancement of equine health.
The Association of Avian Veterinarians (AAV) is a Ross Vet school club for students interested in avian and exotic medicine. We provide opportunities to work with birds on campus, as well as labs and trips to learn about the different aspects of avian medicine and anatomy. In the past, the club has visited a local poultry farm, cleaned the aviary on campus, and practiced physical exams with the birds.
The Student Chapter of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine Club is a free club that offers students the opportunity to explore the different specialties encompassed by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM).
ACVIM currently includes:
- Small Animal Internal Medicine
- Large Animal Internal Medicine
- Medical Oncology
- Neurology
- Cardiology
- Nutrition
Students can discover these different veterinary specialties, and grow their interest in one of them. They will get the opportunity to meet with ACVIM diplomates. Students who then wish to continue on one of these specialties, the club becomes he best source to understand how to build a good CV and prepare to be a great candidate to apply for internship and residency.
Finally students can get opportunities to attend webinars, conferences and wet labs on campus.
Students can find updated information about activities and contacts on Facebook, or students can also find resources on the ACVIM website.
The mission of the American Society of Laboratory Animal Practitioners (ASLAP) is to advance laboratory animal medicine and welfare through member development and representation in the greater professional community. We achieve this through advocacy, education & collaboration. ASLAP and AVMA work together to support the practice of laboratory animal medicine.
Broad Spectrum desires greater support and a sense of community for all LGBTQ+ students and allies throughout veterinary medical education. We actively strive to counter episodes of bigotry and marginalization with positive messages of diversity and inclusion. We have healthy, supportive, and encouraging relationships with pre-veterinary, veterinary, and graduate students, faculty, staff, and administrators. We are known for advocating for the respect and equality of seen and unseen LGBTQ+ members in the academic veterinary community and beyond. We contribute to the development of safe and welcoming veterinary school environments for pre- and current veterinary students. Broad Spectrum makes veterinary schools more inclusive for all students, especially LGBTQ+ students. We accomplish this by starting important and courageous conversations about LGBTQ+ inclusion, in addition to maintaining much-needed support for LGBTQ+ students in veterinary medicine.
The Feral Cat Project (FCP) at Ross Vet is a nonprofit student organization that works to increase the welfare of the feral cats on St. Kitts. It is a trap-neuter-release program for the feral cat population, as well as coming to aid of injured cats and finding forever homes to the cats more suited for living indoors. FCP provides the student body with many opportunities for hands-on experience participating in monthly spay days as well as informing the local communities about population control.
The purpose of this group is to facilitate a democratic discussion amongst the Ross Vet community about different ways to promote environmental awareness and implement eco-friendly changes to reduce our environmental impact.
Our goals for G.I.V.E. include:
- Providing discounts at Rituals, Spice Shack, and Ital when you bring your reusable mug/container
- Providing reusable grocery bags for sale to decrease plastic bag waste
- Helping to improve current recycling programs on campus and the island as a whole
- Hosting beach cleanups, roadside cleanups, and educational/awareness events, integrating the Ross Vet student body with the local community to keep our community clean
Integrative Veterinary Medicine (IVM) is becoming more and more popular in many regions of the U.S. and worldwide. This Ross Vet school club aims to explore the many alternative and complementary therapies as well as the different modalities currently used in veterinary practices. Most therapies require further certification processes, not offered at most veterinary schools. IVM aims to encourage its members and informs students about the practices and certification processes of acupuncture, chiropractic, herbal and phytomedicines, nutraceuticals, and many more. From time to time, guest veterinarians and other professionals who currently integrate complementary or alternative veterinary medicine into their practice or profession are welcomed to lecture or are flown in by the club to visit us at Ross Vet.
Our mission is to promote the concept of One Health to the student body of Ross Vet. The One Health Club believes that in improving the welfare of animals, society, and the environment the world will be a better place to live in. The club has two primary goals to 1) inform our members on the opportunities in public health and the impact that we can make, and 2) to help the community of St. Kitts and surrounding islands in the future. We would like to provide our members with the resources to expand their knowledge in One Health, whether they would like to pursue research, public health, epidemiology, disaster relief, or any of the other divisions. Our club activities include bandage labs, opportunity to complete FAMACHA certification, volunteering in research, and visiting farms in St. Kitts with our club advisors.
The Ross Vet Pathology Club is an on-campus organization dedicated to exploring all realms of pathology. This can mean performing post-mortem exams, looking at histology slides, or attending meetings. Remember, to take advantage of our amazing opportunities, you must be a dues-paying member.
The Ross Vet American Association of Small Ruminant Practitioners provides veterinary students of all experience levels with the opportunity to participate in activities to gain exposure to working with small ruminants. We offer hands-on experiences including sheep and goat farm visits, sheep physical exams, sheep and goat ultrasounds, fecal examinations, hoof trimming, blood draws, and FAMACHA certification. This Ross Vet school club provides members with an opportunity to increase knowledge in husbandry and veterinary care of small ruminants.
Each semester, Animal Behavior Club (ABC) presents an 11-lecture long series on various topics relating to animal behavior and training as well as Dog Sports Day and Weight Pull. Dog Sports Day is an event for students that helps to introduce them and their dogs to the world of dog sports. Weight Pull is a community event that helps to raise awareness that dogs can compete in a way that is not harmful to them. ABC also works closely with Kennel Companions to provide Sunday training classes for the Ross Vet colony teaching dogs. Private training classes (3 classes in groups of 6-8) are also offered each semester for Ross Vet students and faculty with their dogs. ABC also provides free behavior consults for problem behaviors to members of the Ross Vet community.
The Shelter Medicine Club is an organization dedicated to educating students at Ross Vet in various aspects of shelter medicine. Our goal is to provide interactive learning experiences while supporting and strengthening the animals within the community of St. Kitts and Nevis.
The Student Chapter of the American Veterinary Dentistry Society (SCAVDS) is committed to supplementing your veterinary education in dentistry, with the primary focus being on hands-on skills necessary for any practicing veterinarian, which is not currently provided as part of the curriculum. SCAVDS strives to encompass all species through our wet labs and lectures.
The mission of Ross Vet Student Chapter of the American Association of Swine Veterinarians (AASV) is to provide students swine experience, help St. Kitts swine producers create a more sustainable industry, and give students in swine medicine connections to other students and veterinarians. AASV provides multiple hands-on experience opportunities through our connections with the local St. Kitts farmers. These opportunities include piglet processing, ivermectin injections, ultra-sound practice, and communication with our farmers. We strive to help students grasp the concept of herd health and to teach our farmers about biosecurity and better management practices.
The Ross Vet Student Chapter of the American Academy of Veterinary Nutrition (AAVN) promotes greater veterinary student interests in and a better understanding of the current developments in animal nutrition. Also, AAVN strives to create a cooperative relationship with students and the public as we all share the common goal of promoting adequate animal health and development through proper nutrition.
The Student National Association for Black Veterinarians (SNABV) is an initiative of The Institute for Healthcare Education and Leadership non-profit. The mission of SNABV, through its leadership and members, is to build a network of individuals and organizations that advocate for Blacks in veterinary medicine at every level and profession. SNABV seeks to provide mentorship, professional development, and career planning advice to its members. SNABV offers interactive labs, engaging speakers, community service opportunities and a supportive community to its members.
The main purposes of the Veterinary Surgery Club are to further the students’ knowledge in the area of veterinary surgery with an emphasis on small animal surgery and some emphasis on large animal and equine surgery, to provide information about specializing in the field of surgery within the veterinary profession, and when possible, organize hands-on opportunities for the members of the club.
SVECCS is the Student Chapter of the Veterinary Emergency Critical Care Society. We are an active chapter that not only offers labs, guest speakers, and trips to the conference (IVECCS), but we also offer hand-on experience to members. Our members can volunteer for shifts at the Ross University Veterinary Clinic.
The Veterinary Business Management Association (VBMA) is one of the largest student-run organizations in the United States, dedicated to fulfilling the need for a business education to enhance success in a student's professional career. The organization offers scholarships, networking opportunities, internships, jobs, and other unique members-only opportunities. Students can choose to opt-in to the Business Certificate Program, where they can be formally recognized for their commitment to business learning in areas such as personal and business finance, employee and practice management, and career preparation and planning. Check out www.vbma.biz for more information.
Ross Vet Volunteers for Intercultural and Definitive Adventure (VIDA) is a branch of VIDA, a non-profit organization. VIDA St. Kitts provides free basic veterinary care to the pets of St. Kitts whose owners cannot afford it. Members of VIDA reach out to the community to teach and instruct locals on the proper way to care for and maintain the health of their animals. This way, Ross Vet students get valuable hands-on experience while at the same time helping those who need it. Our free clinics take place on different Saturdays throughout each semester.
VOICE (Veterinary Students as One In Culture and Ethnicity) is a national student-run organization that is committed to promoting cultural competency and awareness in veterinary medicine. The Ross Vet school club chapter members accomplish this by arranging guest lecturers, promoting Children’s Home visits, and holding fundraising events such as food and item sales. VOICE encourages acknowledgment, understanding, and respect of cultural differences to enhance the personal and professional growth of individuals within the field of veterinary medicine.
Ross Vet’s student chapter of the World Aquatic Veterinary Medical Association (WAVMA) helps students on their path to practicing veterinary medicine with aquatic animals. WAVMA presents lectures and wet labs in topics related to aquatic medicine from beginner to advanced levels to accommodate various experience levels for their active members. To join the Ross Vet chapter of WAVMA, sign up as a national member of WAVMA and present a confirmation page to Ross Vet WAVMA. National dues include the student chapter dues so there are no additional club fees once annual national dues are paid online at www.wavma.org and become a member.
Wildlife Disease Association (WDA) is the Ross Vet school club chapter of the professional organization Wildlife Disease Association that has members all over the world. WDA focuses on educating students in wildlife conservation, diseases, and research. Ross Vet professors and visiting guest speakers give wildlife lectures throughout each semester and we provide opportunities for students to become involved in wildlife research on campus along with networking between students, veterinarians, professors, and future colleagues.
The Zoo, Exotics, and Wildlife medicine club (ZEW) provides Ross Vet students with hands-on experiences and further education in the field of exotic medicine. We organize annual externship experiences available to club members at the Belize Zoo and host guest speakers to address zoo, exotic, and wildlife medicine. We continue to care for the animals at the local zoo and provide wet labs working with exotic animals. The ZEW Club is responsible for providing daily care and feeding at Zach Nisbett's zoo and does an extensive clean up once a semester.
Did you know that 30+ dogs live on campus? They come to labs with our students and help us learn non-invasive procedures! These pups are island dogs (owner relinquished or previous street dogs that weren’t doing well on their own). They help our students learn for 6 semesters or less and then we find them a permanent loving home. As a kennel companion you’ll have a dog assigned to you, your very own Companion! You can stop by and visit with them between classes, study with them, play with them, take them for walks, and so much more! Our goal as Kennel Companions is to take care and provide our RUSVM Colony Teaching dogs with social and play enrichments, along with providing them the love and attention they need to thrive!
The Diagnostic Imaging Club aims to provide exposure to the field of diagnostic imaging, from basic education to the latest research and techniques. This student organization will help promote diagnostic imaging within the DVM curriculum and interact with other student chapters of the ACVR throughout the United States. We are an active chapter that provides cutting edge diagnostic imaging-based lectures and hands on experience with different imaging techniques.
The Latinx Veterinary Medical Association was founded because there was a need of Latinx representation in the veterinary profession and to close language and cultural barriers, which impact client education and patient care. The Latinx VMA was created to form a community of Latinx excellence in veterinary medicine. Our community welcomes veterinarians, veterinary professionals, students, and clients. We are also proud to welcome allies that are invested in furthering our mission.
The Latinx VMA hopes to increase the visibility of current Latinx veterinary professionals and inspire more students to become veterinarians. We will also advocate on behalf of Latinx veterinary professionals and Latinx clients. The Latinx VMA wants you to embrace your heritage and help you promote the valuable contribution that you bring to your community. We hope to help you become a leader in our profession by amplifying your voice and providing you with a platform that supports you!
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SGA (Non-SAVMA) RECOGNIZED CLUBS AT ROSS VET
Artistry is the center of attention at Creativity club. At the creativity club, students are encouraged to express their passions through paintings, drawings, writing, photography, culinary arts, or music. Our organization inspires students to share and be surrounded by people with a full appreciation of creativity. The club also provides an outlet for students to de-stress in a healthy environment.
The Ross Vet Kiteboarding Club is a sports club that provides students access to internationally certifiable water sports courses (primarily kiteboarding but also associated board riding and wind-powered watersports). By making the connection Kiteboarding Club hopes to let students know what unique opportunities are available here in St Kitts. This Ross Vet school club would like to encourage participation while maintaining our injury-free track record in these thrilling sports by creating a FUN and SAFE environment for our students to experience St Kitts.
The purpose of the Musical Theater Club is to bring the Ross Vet community together (all students, faculty, and staff) to host one musical theater production each semester. The purpose of these productions would be to serve as a creative outlet for students, encourage teamwork, help students with their public speaking skills, and allow an opportunity for students to work together with faculty and staff.
Established in 2000, People for Animal Welfare on St. Kitts (P.A.W.S.) runs a successful rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming program for unwanted, stray, and abused animals on St. Kitts. P.A.W.S. also promotes education of pet ownership in the community, frequently participates in school visits, and hosts animal awareness days regarding companion animal husbandry.
ROSS TALK is a public speaking club that allows students, faculty, and staff the ability to share whatever they are passionate about in efforts to educate their campus and community! Membership is free and no fundraisers are being held for this club as the club's number one priority is to work on communication. ROSS TALK holds weekly meetings where members of the club speak and receive constructive criticisms to make improvements. Also, this Ross Vet school club offers workshops in public speaking and PowerPoint Presentations as well as client- doctor simulations for students to practice communication skills.
S.A.F.E quite literally does as its name suggests – Saving Animals From Emergency. S.A.F.E. St. Kitts takes in animals in emergent need. The animals that are taken in are starving, injured, sick, surrendered, or abused. S.A.F.E. provides the animals the medical care they need to recover, and almost as important, the club gives them the love and kindness they thrive on. Once rehabilitated, S.A.F.E. adopts them to permanent and loving homes. Forever transformed are the lives of the animals who enter the program. S.A.F.E. St. Kitts is also a resource for those who seek to help island animals. S.A.F.E. has created a donation bank, the first of its kind here in St. Kitts. For those who find a street animal they wish to help, S.A.F.E. offers free supplies to make the rescue easier. Also, S.A.F.E. provides collars, leashes, blankets, toys, bowls, and many other things for those who are taking in a stray in need. S.A.F.E. also helps in getting the animals back to health, such as transportation to the local vet, and help with basic grooming. S.A.F.E. believes by empowering others to rescue, an even bigger impact can be made here in St. Kitts.
The Ross Vet SCUBA Club is a large student-run organization on campus. As a Ross Vet school club, we organize PADI SCUBA certifications with local dive shops for members wanting to start diving or advance their SCUBA skills. The club also organizes multiple SCUBA diving trips each semester with local dive shops and a midsemester break diving trip. Our recent midsemester break trips include Saba, a Dutch Caribbean island that is surrounded by a marine conservation park, St. Eustatius, and local hard to reach reefs around St. Kitts. Along with diving, the SCUBA club gives back to St. Kitts through beach clean-ups and Reef conservation fundraisers.
Future Feline Practitioners (FFP) aims to allow students to learn about feline medicine. We offer wet labs that let students work hands-on with cats performing physical exams and have guest lecturers give presentations on feline medicine and practice. Our goal is to make every student at Ross Vet comfortable handling cats in a clinical setting and to introduce them to the field of feline medicine.
The RUSVM Dungeons & Dragons Club is open to the Ross Vet community and welcomes new and experienced players alike. We host groups utilizing both 5th edition rules as well as homebrew games. We meet in regular weekly sessions to enjoy the game. The club also hosts several guided workshops throughout each semester to further develop its members’ specific creative interests within the D&D universe.
CLUB FUNDS REQUEST
Twice a semester, in weeks 5 and 9 at the weekly SAVMA meetings, student organizations/clubs can request funds from the Student Government Association (SGA). Meetings in weeks 5 and 9 are designated as Budget Meetings for this purpose. As such, each club requesting funds must follow the guidelines, which are available for download below, and complete the budget proposal forms, as well as, any supplementing documentation necessary before the Budget Meeting begins.
Ross University Vet School Clubs/Organizations may request funds for general assistance or to bring speakers to the University. Requests will be taken into consideration, deliberated upon within the SGA, and a decision reached. The organization/club will be notified of the decision via email.
Budget Meeting Guidelines (PDF)
Budget Proposal Form (EXCEL)
Downloads
RUSVM SAVMA Constitution and Bylaws (PDF)
RUSVM SGA/SAVMA Handbook (PDF)
