Ross Vet Student Clubs
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Ross Vet Student Government
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 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
Executive Board
SAVMA @ RUSVM Officers
Jonathan Dumas
Jonathan is from Miami, Florida and attended the University of Florida where he received a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science. He went on to receive a dual master's in Agricultural and Extension Education and International Agriculture and Development from Pennsylvania State University. Jonathan spent five years working in Washington, D.C. as a Program and Policy Analyst for both USDA, APHIS, Veterinary Services, and USDA, Departmental Management, Office of Human Resources Management respectively. He wanted to be a veterinarian as a child and credits 4-H, the National FFA Organization, and MANRRS for building off his excitement and educating him about the importance of animal health and medicine. Jonathan has always wanted to specialize in large animal medicine but has recently developed an interest in companion animal medicine.
Kianna Lyte
Kianna is from Stone Mountain, Georgia. She graduated from Fort Valley State University with a bachelor's degree in Animal Science and a master's degree in Animal Nutrition. She has always had a passion for animals since a young age, and never deviated from becoming a veterinarian. At 16, her first job was at Columbia Belvedere Animal Hospital in Decatur, GA, where she continues to work whenever available. Since beginning at Ross Vet, she has become a research assistant with Dr. Chapwanya, and involved with Ross Vet school clubs VOICE as the fundraising chair, and a member of SVECCS. Upon graduating, she plans to pursue a career in mixed animal practice.
Rose Sellers
Ashton Rose Sellers is originally from Kansas City, Missouri but has called Dallas, Texas home for the past two years. Her Bachelor of Science and integrated science studies were completed in her home state at the University of Central Missouri. Besides being SAVMA treasurer she has been a member of the Ross Vet school club ZEW as well as VOICE and would like to work with them more in future semesters. She is also participating in small ruminant research on Nevis. Growing up she had large encyclopedias on different animal species which sparked her interest in wildlife and exotics. Upon graduation, she would like to participate in an internship and gain more knowledge from specialists that work with exotics to provide that service to pet owners in her home area. One of her long-term goals is to open a wildlife sanctuary to help rehabilitate animals.
Justice Birdsong
Justice Birdsong is from Kansas City, Missouri. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences at the University of Missouri - Columbia. She worked as a manager and member of the Small Animal Critical Care Assistants (SACCA) in the ICU of the University of Missouri Veterinary Health Center for three years. She hopes to use her DVM to continue working in Small Animal Emergency Medicine and to help foster healthy relationships between people of underprivileged communities and their pets.
Rebeckah Kate Duggan & Victoria Alford
Kate was born and raised in Fayetteville, Georgia. She graduated with a BS in biology from Columbus State University. Kate has always been very involved in campus life, being a part of 8 organizations in her undergrad. She currently is a SAVMA activities director, and can’t wait to start finding other clubs to be a part of at Ross University. Kate has always had a zoo of pets at home, everything from cats, dogs, turtles, guinea pigs, and any toads she could fit in her pockets when no one was looking. When she was five years old she was given a “Dr. Kate” coat and a children’s medical kit from her parents. From that point on, there was not one pet that didn’t get daily check-ups from her. Kate strives to become a wildlife and exotic species veterinarian to assist animals that have been injured or orphaned due to natural disasters and poaching.
Victoria is from Houston, Texas and from a young age, knew she wanted to grow up and help animals. As a child, she used to rescue stray cats and dogs, nurse them to health, and find them forever homes. Victoria earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from St. Edward's University in Austin, Texas (Go Hilltoppers!). She worked at a veterinary clinic and after a couple of months, became the youngest surgery trained assistant there. Currently, Victoria is a member of a few clubs at Ross such as VIDA, VOICE, and Kennel Companions. She hopes to use her degree and passion to educate and create a fascination about animal health and medicine in her community
Carly Levinstein
Carly was born and raised in Fairfax, Virginia in the suburbs outside of Washington D.C. The daughter of a veterinarian, she grew up in the halls of her mother’s small animal clinic. Growing up, her house was often referred to as “the zoo”, with cats, dogs, guinea pigs, birds, rabbits, turtles, chameleons, sugar gliders, and more. She received her bachelor’s from the University of Virginia where she focused on conservation biology and ecology with a minor in bioethics. In her spare time, she serves on the board of a non-profit dedicated to teaching adaptive watersports to people with disabilities within an inclusive and supportive community. Since starting at Ross, she has served as the Feline Medical Coordinator for one of the student rescue organizations, a research volunteer studying conservation and sustainability, the SAVMA Webmaster for the 2019-2020 school year, and is currently a Teaching Assistant for Clinical Pathology. She hopes to specialize in exotics and emergency medicine. She will be attending Oregon State University in the spring to complete her clinical year. She is excited to continue to represent the student body for her last semester on-island and help every student reach their potential!
Alexander Amalfitano
Alex was born in Stony Brook, New York but was raised in Peachtree City, Georgia. He grew up with a mother and a father who are both mechanical engineers, a sister who is a chemical engineer, and a brother in the US Army with a degree in engineering management. However, Alex loved animals way more than he loved mathematics and decided from an early age to pursue veterinary medicine. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from The University of Georgia, where he spent time doing volunteer research in marine biology. His pack currently consists of two rescue animals; a dog named Cato and a cat named Bitcoin. Most of his free time is dedicated to hiking, camping, and watching college football. Along with serving as the Junior Delegate for Ross University, Alex is the Chairman for the Education and Professional Development Committee in the national SAVMA organization.
D’Janai Butler
D’Janai was raised in San Francisco, California but currently resides in Parker, Texas. She received her Associates of Science and General Studies from Collin County Community College and her Bachelor of Science in Agriculture with a concentration in Animal Sciences from Prairie View A&M University in Prairie View, Texas. Dee is an active member of the Pathology Club, Veterinary Business Management Association (VBMA), Veterinarians as One Inclusive Community for Empowerment (VOICE), and National Association for Black Veterinarians (NABV). She is also a research volunteer for the Mongoose Project on St. Kitts. With her degree, Dee plans on joining the U.S. Vet Corps and pursuing her board certification in Pathology to promote and further the One Health initiative internationally. She is excited to serve on this SAVMA board and can’t wait to see what the future has in store.
Yun Jung Byeon
Yun was born in South Korea but moved to London in Ontario, Canada when she was 10. She has since lived in Houston TX, Vancouver BC, and in the Seattle suburbs, ultimately becoming a citizen of both Canada and the US. Her B.A. is in Cognitive Sciences with concentration in linguistics and neuroscience. She went from studying computational linguistics to veterinary medicine when she realized her true passion lies with helping wildlife. She worked at a wildlife rehabilitation center for 4 years before being accepted to Ross Vet Prep. When she graduates in August 2022, she plans on specializing in wildlife pathology and veterinary forensics to help fight against animal cruelty to wildlife. Aside from being the SAVMA webmaster, Yun is also involved in the Diversity Committee and ZEW club among many others, and in her spare time she is an online gamer and works as a website developer for her father’s human clinic.
Tony Lofaro
Tony Lofaro grew up in a small town in northern New Jersey where he was first introduced to the veterinarian path by his dad. Growing up he would watch his father saving animals lives daily. He then went on to Ohio State University and was able to witness them win the first national football championship in 2014 (Go Bucks). Now, he is fortunate enough to be attending Ross Vet and to continue his dream of becoming a small animal practitioner. As his role of Student Wellness officer, he oversees the stress buster week, puppy/kitten therapy, RossieFit, etc. When he is not neck-deep in Panoptos, he spends his time taking advantage of the beautiful scenery the island has to offer by going on the many hikes found on St. Kitts or enjoying a stag by the beach.
Pedro Delaplane
Pedro is from Costa Rica and as a dual citizen moved frequently between the U.S. and Costa Rica. He obtained his associate degree at Seminole State College, his bachelor's degree from the University of Central Florida and a graduate TESOL certificate from Dallas International University. Pedro’s initial pursuit was the study of linguistics but changed his career path to veterinary medicine amidst the summer of 2016. Pedro hopes to become a veterinarian for the United States Army and wishes to specialize as a Veterinary Pathologist.
Shaye Antal
Shaye Antal was born and raised in Oceanside, California, and completed her undergraduate degree at UC Davis. Starting in Vet Prep in January 2019 she became a research assistant for the mongoose project and the lionfish project here at Ross. She is also heavily involved in the Wildlife Disease Association Student Chapter and over the semester was their fundraising chair and vice president. As a young girl, Shaye had a passion for working with animals, specifically wildlife. She always knew she would become a vet one day in hopes of working in wildlife conservation and medicine. Shaye is a DVM candidate for 2022 and hopes to continue on the path of her dreams and pursue research to further herself towards her goal of working in wildlife conservation and medicine.
Emily Donoghue
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.
Christina Whetsel & Kelsey Hank
Christina hails from a small rural town in Ohio but has lived in Rochester, New York for the past six years. She spends her free time going on hikes with her dogs, horseback riding, and taking naps. Sleep is very important! She went to Rochester Institute of Technology and got a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a pre-veterinary focus. During her time as an undergraduate, she did an internship at a local zoo and got to interact with a variety of exotic animals and did research with her academic advisor on river otters to identify genetic diversity in their population. She is passionate about working in a mixed animal field, seeing companion animals in clinic settings, and doing ambulatory care with horses and other farm animals.
She also attended a pre-veterinary program for underrepresented students where she was exposed to and given the opportunity to network with many different people in a variety of fields, helping her gain field and clinical experience with multiple species of animals. She also believes that the most prominent thing that she would be able to contribute to our program is the ability to establish an environment to help and support each other through Vet Prep program!
Kaelan Harmes & Storm Bugh
Kaelan is from Borden, Indiana. She graduated from Purdue University in 2020 with a major in Animal Sciences and a minor in Biological Sciences. She has always had a passion for animals and plans on pursuing a mixed animal profession after graduation. She has had previous experience in poultry and dairy research, working in Purdue’s large/small animal hospital in both Cardiology and Ophthalmology, studying abroad in Colombia to assist in rabies/castration clinics, and working at her local zoo. She not only enjoys helping animals but helping people as well by being a TA in undergrad for microbiology, reproduction, chemistry, and animal anatomy/physiology. During her free time, she enjoys running and doing yoga with her friends. Kaelan hopes to further her education and connections at Ross Vet while developing her passion for all aspects of Veterinary Medicine.
Storm is from Edina, Missouri and completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Missouri-Columbia in Animal Science. He then completed his master program in Agriculture at Northwest Missouri State University following his undergraduate career. He has worked within many different areas of veterinary medicine, including a small animal/exotic exclusive pet hospital to a rural mixed practice clinic. He has further animal experience steaming from being raised on a farm with a variety of livestock. This exposure during his youth to animals began the passion for veterinary medicine and has only furthered through his studies. His plan is to become a mixed practice veterinarian with the possibility of specializing in Equine Theriogenology.
Michelle Marinich & Kevin Ramirez
Michelle is from Atlanta, Georgia and obtained a degree in Veterinary Technology from Alfred State College and went on to complete her undergraduate studies in Animal Science with a concentration in Dairy Science at Cornell University. She is dual licensed as a Veterinary Technician in New York and Georgia with a focus in Emergency and Critical Care. She has a variety of experience working with animals including, but not limited to, small animal specialty and emergency, large animal ambulatory and dairy production, specifically calf and heifer management. Since she was young, she has always had a love for animals, but it wasn’t until later in her career that she decided to pursue a career as a veterinarian. Michelle has an interest in emergency and transfusion medicine with goals to open her own multi-species blood product donation center. In her free time, she enjoys playing volleyball, relaxing in the sun and going for hikes with her dog, Ollie.
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 seeks to work with exotic animal medicine in a clinical setting or wildlife rehabilitation. Besides being on the SAVMA General Board, he is also the President of RUSVM Broad Spectrum, and a student ambassador for Ross. He also enjoys being part of the Kennel Companions and several other clubs at the school, where he constantly meets new people and learns more about animal care and welfare.
Daniela Lopez & Elizabeth Aga
Daniela was born and raised in San Juan, Puerto Rico. She attended Universidad de Puerto Rico-Mayagüez Campus and Iowa State University. While in college, her love to help animals and educate people in various communities of Puerto Rico sparked when she had the opportunity to participate in Spayathons - high-quality, high-volume spay and neuter missions and clinics. After working with Volunteers for Intercultural and Definitive Adventure’s (VIDA) for five spayathons, her love for small animal medicine grew. What motivated her the most was seeing how she can help their owners and pets to have happier and healthier lives. For this and many other reasons, she plans to work as a small animal veterinarian and volunteer in spayathons in various countries when she graduates in April 2023.
Elizabeth is from Atlanta, Georgia, and graduated from Kennesaw State University with a bachelor's degree in biology. Her passion for animals led her to work in many different aspects of the veterinary field. Through her rotations, she fell in love with integrative medicine, including acupuncture, spinal manipulation, and rehabilitation. She hopes to grow this passion and knowledge while at Ross Vet with the hopes of one day owning her own rehabilitation clinic. In her spare time, she can be found at the dog park with her goldendoodle, Annie, who traveled with her to St. Kitts.
Suji Kim & Marissa Matthews
Suji is from Brooklyn, New York and got her undergraduate degree at Boston College, where she studied Clinical Psychology and volunteered as a student Emergency Medical Technician. Her first animal experience was in high school as an assistant caretaker at the Wild Bird Fund in New York City. She spent the year before vet school working as a Veterinary Technician at Alameda East in Denver, Colorado. There, she had the chance to work alongside many doctors and technicians who continue to inspire her while she completes her degree. Today, she still loves wild birds and exotics and hopes to work more with them and small animals in the future.
Marissa is from Brooklyn, Michigan and she received her bachelor’s from the University of Michigan in 2015. After graduating, she moved to Colorado to work on a small dairy farm, where she obtained her cat, Jasper. After working in various specialties, she found her passion in veterinary ophthalmology. She is currently a research volunteer in a corneal pathology study and hopes to one day become a board-certified ophthalmologist. In her free time, she plays soccer and volleyball.
Jessica Guyett & Shea Noonan
Shea hails from Fort Wayne, Indiana. He received his bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from Indiana University. He graduated thinking he wanted to be a medical doctor; but God had other plans for his life and he became interested in veterinary medicine a little over two years ago. He is still a licensed emergency medical technician in the state of Indiana and worked in a human emergency room for almost five years. Also, in human medicine, he worked in an Advanced Simulation Laboratory where he dealt with 3D technology, simulation manikins, and both augmented and virtual reality simulators. He uncovered his desire to pursue Veterinary Medicine and worked in a veterinary emergency room and ICU while volunteering at an exotic animal sanctuary. His passion in veterinary medicine is working with large exotic species. With his degree from Ross Vet he would like to work in zoo medicine and join an international program to volunteer in other countries in exotic animal sanctuaries and rescue organizations.
Jessica was born and raised in Fort Worth, Texas. She attended undergrad at Sam Houston State University (Go Bearkats!) receiving her Bachelor's Degree in Biomedical Sciences. She is involved with many clubs - Diagnostic Imaging, American Association of Small Ruminant Practitioners, Surgery, and VIDA. Her favorite is VIDA which allows Ross students to provide free veterinary care to animals across the island. She originally became interested in veterinary medicine while volunteering at a local Banfield Hospital, this led to a 13-year career in various fields like Emergency, Exotic and Oncology medicine. She is undecided at the moment where she wants to settle in the world of veterinary medicine but is very passionate about end of life care, shelter medicine, and specialty practice.
Madison Bland
Maddy is from Minneapolis, Minnesota and has a Bachelor of Science in psychology from the University of Minnesota. She found her passion for veterinary medicine post-graduation when she started working at her local animal shelter. She then worked as a veterinary technician for a busy animal hospital while she applied to veterinary school. Some of her favorite areas to study within vet med include cardiology, dermatology and pathology. She's really passionate about shelter/non-profit medicine and wants to bring veterinary care to pets in underserved communities. She's proud to be an Orange Fox and very proud to represent her class on SAVMA's general board.
Caitlyn Yunker & Julie Fithian
Julie is from Long Island, New York and graduated from Stony Brook University with a Bachelor of Science in Marine Vertebrate Biology. While in school, she interned with the Riverhead Marine Foundation as a member of the Rescue Team, working with mainly pinnipeds and sea turtles. After graduation she worked for the Town of Southampton Trustees doing endangered species monitoring with the Piping Plovers and Least Terns, two species of shorebirds. Once the season ended, she got a job as a Veterinary Assistant at the East Hampton Vet Clinic where she worked for two years before being accepted to Ross Vet. Here at Ross Vet she is involved with her class as one of the Class Representatives, TAs for the Vet Prep program, and is a Research Assistant with the St Kitts Sea Turtle Monitoring Network. She is looking to pursue Aquatic and Zoo medicine! She has 2 cats and a dog here on island and her favorite animal is the Little Penguin.
Caitlyn is from Haverhill, MA and graduated from Arcadia University in Pennsylvania, with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a minor in Business Administration. While in college she did research on reproduction genes in Drosophila Melanogaster. During that time, she also worked as a Veterinary Assistant at Hopewell Veterinary clinic in Pennsylvania, before being accepted to Ross Vet. Back home she has one dog named Luna. Here at Ross Vet she is active in the RUSVM chapter of Student Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society, of which she was the Vice President for three semesters. She is hoping to become board certified in Emergency and Critical Care after her time here at Ross University.
Giovanna Paredes
Giovanna is from Forest Hills, New York and received her Bachelor of Science in Biology from St. John’s University. While in undergrad, Giovanna became a proud sister of Lambda Pi Upsilon Sorority, Latinas Poderosas Unidas Inc. She became very active in cultural awareness, education and in helping the underprivileged members of the american society, through positive actions for the improvement and advancement of their communities. However, Giovanna’s passion has always been to help animals and hopes to become a veterinarian to have the opportunity to educate underprivileged communities in Peru, while providing them aid for their animals. Currently, Giovanna is involved in various clubs on campus, serving as treasurer of the AAV Chapter at Ross and secretary of Broad Spectrum, and she is excited to work with other enthusiastic individuals in creating a positive community at Ross University. Gi is a lover of all animals, big and small, and during her free time enjoys rehabilitating wildlife, meditating and going to the beach.
Veronica Alexanders
Veronica is from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. She received her Biological Sciences and Genetics degree at the University of Manitoba and did her Masters in Animal Science at the University of Alberta. She is currently the RUSVM International Veterinary Students' Association Representative, ZEW Secretary, and has participated in research projects directed by Dr. Ghosh. Both of her parents are Veterinarians who have worked alongside the United Nations. Growing up, she was surrounded by the constant care and widespread education of the veterinary world. Intrigued with such unique practices in one profession, she developed the interest in its study, which ignited my passion. She has always been interested in working with wildlife, zoo, and large animals. Travelling a lot before starting at Ross, she has seen firsthand the impact that animals have on the health of the public, as well as their agriculture. She hopes to work in both underdeveloped and developing countries to educate people about the care of animals, as well as working hands-on with animals in those countries. She also hopes to receive the necessary training in more holistic approaches to animal care and medicine, which can be useful in countries that may not have all the necessary veterinary medical resources.
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
PDF Involvement Sheet
PDF Involvement Sheet Example
SAVMA PDF Checklist
PDF Fund Application
PDF Application
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 And 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 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 and collaboration. ASLAP and AVMA work together to support the practice of laboratory animal medicine. On-campus activities include participation in necropsy, training laboratories, vivarium tours and other research opportunities. We also host guest speakers from the Lab Animal community (virtual and in-person) that include researchers, residents, and other experts in the field.
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) is a non-profit student organization with a goal of increasing the welfare of the feral cats and community members of St. Kitts. It is a trap-neuter-return program to help control the many populations of feral cats across the island, as well as find permanent homes for cats better suited for indoor living. FCP also educates the residents on their purpose and how spay/neutering can limit the population of unwanted feral cats. This club provides many opportunities to participate in hands-on experience during their Spay Days.
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 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 a student-driven organization dedicated to advancing the profession through increasing business knowledge, creating networking opportunities, and empowering students to achieve their personal and professional goals. We are founded on the innovation, determination, and entrepreneurial spirit of future veterinary leaders who seek a higher level of veterinary education than what is being offered through veterinary colleges. Each semester the VBMA offers professional workshops, a variety of guest lecturers, networking opportunities, and two nationally recognized business certificate programs.
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.
More than two dozen student clubs on campus
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) Updated January 2018
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