Student Government & Clubs
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Student Government
The Student American Veterinary Medical Association 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 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
JUNIOR SAINT PREUX
Junior is from Orlando, Florida and attended undergrad at Bethune-Cookman University. He has wanted to be a veterinarian since he was a child. He participated in dual enrollment during high school as a veterinary assistant at Westside Technical Institute. He has worked in many veterinary hospitals and clinics since then. He never tired of the work and loved the opportunity to impact his community through the veterinary field. He loves how each day brings new experiences. Currently, he has not decided what area he would like to specialize in after graduation but his three main interests are in general practice, food animal, and laboratory medicine.
JOSHUA TAYLOR
Joshua Taylor is from Somerset, NJ. He graduated from Becker College, Worcester, MA, with an Associate of Science in Veterinary Technology (2015) and a Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Science (2017). After earning his Associates, he began working as a veterinary technician at various small animal practices until applying to Ross in 2018. He is a member of VBMA and IVMC were he is learning the business aspect of the veterinary field as well as earning his acupuncture certification. Josh has always had a love for animals’ well-being and science and always had dogs and cats growing up so he naturally gravitated towards veterinary medicine. Once Josh has earned his degree in August 2021, he plans on working as a small animal veterinarian.
GRETCHEN YINGER
Gretchen Yinger is from Zanesville, Ohio where she grew up on her family’s horse farm. She attended Muskingum University and earned her bachelor’s in Animal Sciences with a minor in chemistry and business management. At home, she has a King Charles Cavalier Spaniel, 2 spoiled cats, a guinea pig, a bearded dragon and a Quarter horse. She has always wanted to study to become a veterinarian and that dream became a reality at Ross University. Since being at Ross, she has delved into volunteering in 10+ research projects and is a research assistant for a study surrounding endotoxemia in equids. Apart from research, she is also actively involved in clubs on campus, serving as secretary of Bovine Club and treasurer of Equine Club. She looks forward to working with the community here at RUSVM!
IRELAND CASTILLO
Ireland N. Castillo is from San Benito, TX (South Texas), she earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology with a Minor in Chemistry and English from the University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley. Throughout her time at UTRGV, she volunteered and worked in a small animal clinic with her goal being to one day follow her dream to become a veterinarian. After graduation, she hopes to return to Texas and work in a mixed animal practice with hopes to give back to her community along the way. Ireland is happily married and has a son named Ryan who currently attends the preparatory school on campus. Currently, she is involved in AAEP and serves as the student representative for the Ross Preparatory School-Parent Advisory Committee. Ireland is excited to work with other dedicated, hardworking individuals to continue the greatness of the past board and hopes to improve and bring more to the Rossie community.
BRONWYN TURNER
Bronwyn is originally from Charlotte, North Carolina, and received her Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of North Carolina Wilmington. During her undergraduate career, she was extremely active in the Pre-Veterinary Medical Association and spent her free time volunteering at the Carolina Tiger Rescue, interning at Skywatch Bird Rescue, and working at the local animal emergency hospital. Officially joining the RUSVM community in 2017, she enjoys participating in on campus clubs, such as SVECCS and SCACVIM, and as a Teaching Assistant. Bronwyn is proud to represent RUSVM on the national level, and excited and optimistic to see what the future holds for the wonderful community she is a part of.
BRONWYN TURNER
Bronwyn is originally from Charlotte, North Carolina, and received her Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of North Carolina Wilmington. During her undergraduate career, she was extremely active in the Pre-Veterinary Medical Association and spent her free time volunteering at the Carolina Tiger Rescue, interning at Skywatch Bird Rescue, and working at the local animal emergency hospital. Officially joining the RUSVM community in 2017, she enjoys participating in on campus clubs, such as SVECCS and SCACVIM, and as a Teaching Assistant. Bronwyn is proud to represent RUSVM on the national level, and excited and optimistic to see what the future holds for the wonderful community she is a part of.
CARLY LEVINSTEIN
Carly was born and raised in Fairfax, Virginia in the suburbs outside of DC. 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. 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 PAWS, a student rescue organization where she manages the medical care for all of the cats in the rescue. She also works as a research volunteer studying conservation and sustainability with Dr. Cruz-Martinez. She hopes to specialize in exotics and eventually work in conservation medicine. She is excited to represent the student body and make positive changes!
JAPINDER GREWAL
Japinder (JP) is from Southern California, the home of the G.O.A.T., Kobe Bean Bryant. He attended the University of California - Irvine (Go Eaters!). As the Student Wellness Officer he helps organize such events as stress buster week, puppy/kitten therapy, rossie fit and more! These events aim to help support the physical and mental health of the Ross Family. With his degree, he hopes to improve the overall well-being of animals, humans, and our environment. He encourages his fellow classmates to reach out for anything they may need!
ESMERALDA CANO
Esmeralda hopes to serve as a Latina, bilingual veterinarian in under-represented communities. Growing up in East Los Angeles, California, Esme personally experienced how difficult it is for low-income, Spanish speaking communities to seek veterinary care because of language, cultural, and socioeconomic barriers. She hopes to address the demand for bilingual and culturally diverse veterinarians by providing under-represented communities a sense of comfort and familiarity when they seek veterinary care for their pets. When she’s not being a veterinary student she serves as a member of VOICE. She hopes in her role as cultural outreach officer to promote diversity and cultural inclusion by serving as a liaison between the Diversity and Professionalism committee on campus. During her free time she enjoys going on long hikes and practicing Taekwondo.
HANNAH ADAMSON
Hannah is from Morganfield, Kentucky. She received her bachelor’s from Murray State University. She is involved in numerous activities on campus including VOICE, ICVM, Wishmakers, VBMA, VIDA, Running Club, SCUBA Club, and LEAF. She’s always enjoyed working with and being around animals and pursuing a career in veterinary medicine was the past way for her to do what she loves and help people. She looks forward to finding her niche in the field and eventually specializing!
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.
BRITTANY BRADLEY
Brittany is from New Jersey (that’s right, she doesn’t pump her own gas)! She grew up in a small town in South Jersey and attended and earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Biology at Stockton University. When she was young, her golden retriever puppy was diagnosed with Parvovirus. The veterinarian that saved his life was Brittany’s “celebrity crush” and from then on she knew she wanted to help animals. Before coming to Ross, Brittany worked as a veterinary technician in a small animal practice (with the same doctor that saved her dog’s life) and volunteered at the University of Pennsylvania. She has a passion for all mammals and her dream job is to work as a doctor in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Although animals are her passion, she is terrified of frogs and even gets nervous seeing pictures of them. Besides being class representative for SAVMA, she is in VBMA and ZEW club. She loves working with people, volunteering and having a busy schedule. She has a strong passion for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and continues to help fundraise for the wonderful organization! In her spare time, she loves to travel and spend time with her family. Brittany is loving the island life and is so thankful for the opportunity to be a part of the Ross family!
MADDOX BRIDGES & D’JANAI BUTLER
Maddox is from a small town called Brinson in southwest Georgia. He completed his bachelor of science in biological sciences at the University of Georgia in 2017. He then pursued a master’s degree in agribusiness management also at UGA. He is currently settling in at Ross and is involved in the SCUBA Club. His credits his dad with putting him on the path to veterinary medicine. His father wanted to become a veterinarian, but was unable to since he started farming immediately following his graduation from undergrad. Maddox started working with a relative who is a mixed animal veterinarian in his area and knew that was what he wanted to do. From there he worked in two small animal clinics and worked (sweated) under a veterinarian over the summer at a dairy farm to gain further experience in the field. With his veterinary degree and agribusiness knowledge, he hopes to own his own rural mixed animal practice and help many people that otherwise would not have immediate and affordable access to veterinary care.
D’Janai is originally from San Francisco, California. She graduated Cum Laude from Prairie View A&M University in the fall of 2018 with a Bachelor’s of Science in Agriculture with a concentration in Animal Science. She also received her Associates of Science from Collin County Community College at the same time. She is currently a part of the RUSVM Pathology Club and the RUSVM chapter of V.O.I.C.E. She has always had a strong love for tigers when she was younger, and then when it came time to figure out what she wanted to do with her life she just had to work with them. She still wants to work with tigers, eventually, but her focus now is to become a veterinary pathologist.
SHELBY LEITCH & ANTHONY ELHINN
Maavrik Shelby Leitch is a military brat who settled in Orlando, Florida. He graduated in 2011 with a Bachelors in Sport and Exercise Science. After college, he pursued a career in Staffing and Human Resources. During this time, he got his first pet, a Great Dane, and fell in love with the breed. His passion grew from that of a pet owner to a novice breeder, to a dedicated breed preservationist. This hobby and passion became the trigger for Maavrik’s pursuit into veterinary medicine. He transitioned into the veterinary field working as a Veterinary Technician while preparing himself to apply to veterinary programs. Upon starting at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Maavrik became a member of a few clubs, including VBMA, DI club and VOICE. Maavrik plans to return to the Central Florida area and strives to pursue a career in small animal Theriogenology once he completes his veterinary degree.
Anthony was born and raised in Orange County, California. He attended Cal State Fullerton during undergrad, but it was back in high school where he found his passion for helping animals. He started off working as a kennel attendant at a small animal clinic and instantly fell in love with the field. Watching how much comfort and happiness a veterinarian can bring not only to the pets, but their owners as well, made him determined to want to do the same in his future. He worked his way up and became a technician for a couple years until he finished school and got accepted here at Ross. He hopes to someday own his own small animal practice and bring all that happiness to clients and their furry friends that made him fall in love with the field in the first place.
JULIE FITHIAN & ITSASO KOBAYASHI
Julie is from Long Island, NY and graduated from Stony Brook University with a B.S in Marine Vertebrae 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, 2 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 2 years before being accepted to RUSVM. Here at RUSVM she is involved with her class as one of the Class Representatives, the Head Aviary Manager for the RUSVM AAV (Association of Avian Vets) club and is a research volunteer with the St Kitts Sea Turtle Monitoring Network. She is looking to pursue Aquatic and Zoo medicine! She has 2 cats here on island and her favorite animal is the Little Penguin.
Itsaso is from northern New Jersey. She attended Rutgers University where she participated in goat behavior research. She gained experience working at an emergency and referral Animal hospital and spent the last 2 years working at a general practice. In her free time she enjoys being outdoors and staying active. In 2015 she completed the NYC marathon and hopes to challenge herself by participating in the Dopey Challenge which is a 5K, 10K, half-marathon, and marathon to be completed over two weekends. One in Disney World and the other in Disney Land within the same year. She aspires to specialize in surgery after graduating Ross. She looks forward to serving as class rep for her second semester.
CLAY HARTZOGE & GABRIELLE SMITH
Raised in Arlington, Texas, Clay is a huge sports fan, both playing and watching. Naturally his favorite team is the Dallas Cowboys. Most of his childhood was spent practicing something, be it baseball, martial arts, or playing the French Horn. He took an interest in the sciences at an early age, and after watching his uncle, a veterinarian in Midland, he was inspired to join the medical field myself. Originally he attended the University of North Texas in Denton, TX to go into human medicine. As the years progressed, Clay realized his passion lies within animal medicine and switched career paths. He graduated from UNT in 2016 with a BA in Biology. After graduating, he took a year off from school to gain experience within the veterinary field. He was soon employed by Banfield Pet Hospital in Allen, TX as a Veterinary Assistant and worked in this position for about a year and a half before being accepted to Ross University. He began attending Ross University in May 2018, and have enjoyed chasing his passion the entire time.
Gabby grew up in a small suburb outside of Columbus in Zanesville, Ohio. She received her bachelor of science from the University of Mount Union in 2016. After graduation she accepted a position at Charles River Laboratories as a research biologist. She took the position in the hopes that it would diversify her veterinary experience and to explore laboratory animal medicine as a part of her future. After working there, she decided to move to Florida for 1.5 years before coming to Ross in May 2018. She is also the Student Ambassador for Kremer Veterinary Medicine. She hopes to make an impact on the lives of animals as much as they’ve impacted hers.
SKYE REED & LINDSAY HALL
Skye Reed is one of the class representatives for Green Semester. She grew up in Thousand Oaks, California and graduated from the University of Oklahoma in 2016 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology. During her time at OU she served as the Vice President of the Pre-Veterinary Club and volunteered with Hoofbeats for Hope, a horseback riding school and therapy program for people with special needs. She enjoys spending time with her husband and their four dogs, three cats, and three horses. Skye is an active member of the Student Chapter of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) here at Ross and plans to practice large animal or mixed animal medicine when she graduates.
Lindsay Nicole Hall, a North Texas native, graduated in 2017 with her Bachelor of Science in Biology. She has worked in the animal field since high school, starting as a kennel tech, and most recently a vet tech/receptionist at a clinic in Arlington, Tx. She has one Border Collie, a tortoiseshell cat, and a Crested Gecko at home. She currently has 6 outdoor island cats and could be classified as a crazy cat lady to some. Lindsay's dream would be to work in a zoo or wildlife facility. Ross University is one step closer to achieving that dream!!
ALEXANDRA BAUGHAN & LAUREN WOODWORTH
Alexandra Baughan is from a little town in Northern Michigan. She attended Michigan State University for her undergrad (Go Green!) where she completed a double major in Animal Science and Microbiology. During her schooling, she became a member of the University Activities Board, Animal-Assisted Therapy club, and served as the national convention chair in Block and Bridle club. She has experiences with multiple research projects involving pharmaceuticals and genetics, worked on a sheep and beef cattle farm, and as a veterinary assistant in an emergency hospital. Currently, she is interested in pathology and large animal medicine. When not worried about school, you can find her at shipwreck or watching HGTV with her cat.
Lauren Woodworth is from Clifton, VA right outside of Washington, D.C. She graduated from Pennsylvania State University with a B.S in Animal Science. While at Penn State Lauren was a member of Delta Theta Sigma (DTS), a co-ed professional social agricultural fraternity. She was elected co-historian, secretary, treasurer, and President during her time at DTS. After graduating, Lauren worked as a large and small animal Veterinary Assistant, Receptionist, and Lodging Caretaker at a mixed animal practice in Virginia. She started at RUSVM in May 2017 and during her first semester became a Class Representative for her semester. When she is not studying Lauren is spending time with her husband or skyping with her St. Bernard Mix back home. Lauren is very excited to be a Rossie and loves representing Black Semester!
NICOLE ANDERSON & NATALIA STEFANOVSKA
Nicole Anderson is a Pink Semester class representative. She is from Apple Valley, California. In 2015, she earned her B.S. in Animal Science at th University of California, Davis. While at UC Davis, she spent her time as an amateur lion dancer in the Golden Turtle Lion Dance Association. Nicole spent almost two years as a veterinary receptionist and assistant at a private small animal practice before pursuing her dream at RUSVM. After earning her DVM, she plans to work in a small or mixed practice. At home, she has 3 dogs and occasionally spends time with horses. Her other interests include playing video games, cooking (eating…), and going to Nerd Trivia! Before coming to RUSVM, Nicole did not own any pink clothes, but now she represents her class loud and proud.
CASSANDRA HOY
Cassie Hoy is from Valdosta, Georgia and has one rescued American Pit Bull Terrier mix and a goofy Yellow Labrador Golden Retriever cross. She attended the University of Georgia (Go Dawgs!) for undergrad where she spent a lot of time working with a group that trained guide dogs. On campus you can find her in the ZEW, AABP, Sx, VBMA, DI, and Pathology club lectures – and also diving in the beautiful St. Kitts waters with the Scuba Club. The reason she became interested in veterinary medicine is because while volunteering at the UGA vet school, the highlight of her day was having the opportunity to treat animals in a hospital setting. She also worked in a small zoo, an animal shelter, a dairy farm and a bird research study, but it was walking into the veterinary clinic that made her happiest! Upon graduation she hopes to go into a busy Mixed Animal practice with multiple doctors to learn from. As a SAVMA General Board member for AVMA PLIT and LIFE, she hopes to help students get the Professional Liability Insurance coverage they need to protect them in externships and clinicals.
HAYLEY ERCOLI
Hayley is originally from Plant City, Florida. SHe attended the University of Florida for undergrad (Go Gators!). On campus she is involved in AABP. Her family has raised beef cattle for three generations and she grew up riding horses. She fell in love with veterinary medicine by observing her vet come out on farm visits and eventually shadowing her in the clinic. She hopes to take over a mixed animal practice in her hometown and provide quality and reasonable healthcare to farmers and ranchers in my area.
HADIYAH EDWARDS
Although allergic to cats and dogs, Hadiyah Edwards has always had a passion for saving animals, particularly lions, tigers, and bears...(Oh my!) Outside of providing veterinary care to threatened and endangered animal species, it is her goal to work with indigenous and local communities to close the conservation knowledge gap and to promote active community involvement in the conservation of these animals. Originally from St. Louis, MO, she moved away from family to pursue a 4-year college degree - the first in her family to do so. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from Cornell University. Currently, she is a member of the Diversity Committee and serves on the Executive Board for V.O.I.C.E. She also works as a Research Volunteer in a theriogenology study. Hadiyah is thrilled to represent RUSVM on an international level and hopes she can use her position to further promote international collaboration among students.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FUND
PDF is a program under SGA 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 clubs and organizations representing a variety of interests, it will be easy 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
AABP is the largest organization on campus, we have 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 give our members the opportunity to become AI (artificial insemination) certified through Select Sires. We host a burger sale every semester along with our welcome back BBQ. We promote excellence within this field of medicine and help our members to gain exceptional bovine handling skills.
The Student Chapter of American Association of Equine Practitioner (SCAAEP) at Ross University School of Veterinary 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 RUSVM 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.
AAV is a club for students interested in avian and exotic medicine. We provide opportunities to work with birds on campus s well as labs and trips to learn about the different aspects of avian medicine and anatomy. This past semester the club was able to have a trip to a local poultry farm, and additionally cleaned the aviary on campus and practiced physical exams with the birds.
The mission of 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 Vision Statement:
Broad Spectrum desires greater support and a sense of community for all LGBT+ 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 LGBT+ 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 LGBT+ students. We accomplish this by starting important and courageous conversations about LGBT+ inclusion, in addition to maintaining much needed support for LGBT+ students in veterinary medicine.
The Feral Cat Project (FCP) at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine is a nonprofit student organization that strives to increase the welfare of the feral cats of 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 with participating in monthly spay days as well as provide information to local communities about population control.
The purpose of this group is to facilitate a democratic discussion amongst the RUSVM community about different ways to promote environmental awareness and implement eco-friendly changes in order 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 clean ups, roadside cleanups, and educational/awareness events, integrating the RUSVM 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. The 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 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. Currently, IVMC is working on a herbal veterinary medicine webpage, a collaborative effort from club members to seek evidence-based phytotherapy in order to build a database for future reference when in practice.
Our mission is to promote the concept of One Health to the student body of RUSVM. The One Health Club believes that in improving the welfare of animals, society, and the environment, that the world as a whole will be a better place to live in. The club has goals to first inform our members on the opportunities in Public Health and the impact that we can make, and second to help the community in Saint Kitts & 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 division. Our club activities includes bandage labs, opportunity to complete FAMACHA certification, volunteering in research and visiting farms in St. Kitts with our club advisors.
RUSVM 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 on Thursdays. If you are interested in pathology, check out our page and attend one of our weekly meetings. Remember, to take advantage of our amazing opportunities, you must be a dues paying member.
Ross University American Association of Small Ruminant Practitioners provides Veterinary students of all experience levels the opportunity to participate in activities in order to gain exposure to working with small ruminants. We offer hands on experiences which have included but are not limited to sheep and goat farm visits, sheep physical exams, sheep and goat ultrasounds, fecal examinations, hoof trimming, blood draws, and FAMACHA certification. This 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, Weight Pull and a Hot Dog lunch bake sale. 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 be competed in a way that is not harmful to them. ABC also works closely with Kennel Companions to provide Sunday training classes for the RUSVM colony teaching dogs. Private training classes (3 classes in groups of 6-8) are also offered each semester for Ross students and faculty with their personal dogs. ABC also provides free behavior consults for problem behaviors to members of the RUSVM community.
The Shelter Medicine Club is an organization dedicated to educating students at Ross University 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.
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 wetlabs and lectures.
The mission of Ross University of Veterinary Medicine Student Chapter of the American Association of Swine Veterinarians (RUSVM 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 biosecutrity and better management practices.
RUSVM Student Chapter of American Academy of Veterinary Nutrition (SCAAVN) promotes greater veterinary student interests in and better understanding of the current developments in animal nutrition. In addition, SCAAVN also 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 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 also we offer hand on experience to members. They have the opportunity to volunteer for shifts at the Ross University Veterinary Clinic, because we cover the shifts for 7th semesters the night before an exam. Non-member fan page: Ross SVECCS National Facebook group: SVECCS
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 & practice management, and career preparation and planning. Check out www.vbma.biz for more information.
RUSVM Volunteers for Intercultural and Definitive Adventure (VIDA) is a branch of VIDA a non-profit organization. RUSVM VIDA provide 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, RUSVM students get valuable hands-on experience while at the same time helping those who really 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 University chapter members accomplish this through 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 personal and professional growth of individuals within the field of veterinary medicine.
RUSVM's student chapter of World Aquatic Veterinary Medical Association (WAVMA). The goal of WAVMA is to help students on their path to practicing veterinary medicine with aquatic animals. WAVMA presents lectures and web labs in topics related to aquatic medicine from beginner to advanced levels to accommodate various experience level for their active members. To join the RUSVM chapter of WAVMA, sign up as a national member of WAVMA and present confirmation page to RUSVM 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. [email protected] Facebook: RUSVM Aquatic Veterinary Medicine Club
Wildlife Disease Association (WDA) is the RUSVM student 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. RUSVM 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 ZEW club serves to provide RUSVM 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.Last semester we had an animal enrichment wet lab where we explained the importance of enrichment items/activities in zoological medicine, discussed species appropriate items, and created reusable and disposable toys for the animals at the local zoo. We had a wet lab visiting SNAPPER where we were shown how to manage large populations of local fish. We were informed about water quality testing, the making of feed, and the general care and sexing of fish. We were also given a presentation about local sea turtles and were able to assist in the feeding of the turtles. 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. We had a monkey darting wet lab at the zoo, as well. Club members learned proper handling techniques of Green Vervet Monkeys, were able to assist in darting them, administered shots and medication, and completed physical exams on the monkeys. We arranged for Dr. Lou Cornicelli to visit RUSVM and give a presentation on big game capture in the Midwest. We participated in three pudding dirt cup bake sales. Finally, we hosted our night volleyball tournament to raise additional funds for the club.
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 creativity club, students are encouraged to express their passions through paintings, drawings, writing, photography, culinary arts, or music. Our organization inspires students to share with one another 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 RUSVM 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. The club would like to encourage participation whilst 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 community together (all students, faculty, and staff) to host one musical theater production each semester. The purpose of these productions would be 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. Along their foster program, 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. P.A.W.S. is also in the building stages of Basseterre Animal Rescue Center (BARC), which will be the island’s first animal shelter.
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 will be given the opportunity to speak and receive constructive criticisms to make improvements. In addition, the club offers workshops in public speaking and PowerPoint Presentations as well as client- doctor simulations for students to practice communication skills. Stop by a talk by one of the club members and be inspired by their speech or present your own to inspire those around you in a judgment free environment!
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. adopt 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. In addition, 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 offers assistance 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.
RUSVM SCUBA Club is the largest student run organization on campus. As a 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, SCUBA club gives back to St. Kitts through beach clean-ups and Reef conservation fundraisers.
FFP aims to give students the opportunity 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 RUSVM comfortable handling cats in a clinical setting and to introduce them to the field of feline medicine.
CLUB FUNDS REQUEST
Twice a semester, in weeks 5 and 9 at the weekly SAVMA meetings, student organizations/clubs are allowed to 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.
Organizations/Clubs 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 SCAVMA Constitution and Bylaws (PDF)
RUSVM SGA Handbook (PDF) Updated January 2018
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