Ross Vet Student Clubs
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Ross Vet 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
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 of 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 interest in companion animal medicine.
Kianna Lyte
Kianna is from Stone Mountain, GA. 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 RUSVM, she has become a research assistant with Dr. Chapwanya, VOICE 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 bachelors of science and integrated science studies was completed in her home state at the University of Central Missouri. Besides being SAVMA treasurer she has been a member of ZEW club 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 in order 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 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 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 is excited to continue to represent the student body 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, CA but currently resides in Parker, TX. She received her Associates of Science and General Studies from Collin County Community College and her Bachelor’s of Science in Agriculture with a concentration in Animal Sciences from Prairie View A&M University in Prairie View, TX. Dee is an active member of the Pathology Club, VBMA and VOICE. She is also a research volunteer for the Mongoose Project that is occurring on St. Kitts. With her Degree, Dee plans on joining the US 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 on a daily basis. 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 University 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 attended undergrad at the University of Central Florida. Having heard the challenges of a veterinary education, he took it as a personal affront to develop himself. He worked as a veterinary technician while studying which cemented his resolve for the field. While open to specializations, Pedro is interested in aquaculture and government work. While not studying Pedro finds meditation in cooking and seeks opportunities to nourish the diversification of Ross as the Cultural Outreach Officer
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.
Natalia Munoz & Storm Bugh
Natalie Muñoz was born and raised in Howell, New Jersey and moved to Southern California when she was thirteen years old. In June 2016, Munoz graduated from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Animal Science concentrating in Pre-Veterinary medicine. A month prior to obtaining her B.S. degree Munoz pursued further graduate education. In December 2018, Munoz graduated from Miami University with a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Biology. During her graduate studies (Advanced Inquiry Program), Munoz was able to combine web-based graduate courses through Miami University with face-to-face experiential learning with San Diego Zoo Global. Her love for wildlife conservation flourished during this program and she focused her research and coursework on wildlife veterinary medicine.
Throughout her graduate research with San Diego Zoo Global, she learned that inspiring future veterinary professionals to be resilient in becoming a wildlife veterinarian is essential. The graduate program not only gave her the tools to one day help save endangered species but broaden her perspectives in understanding these issues on a global and local scale. Munoz learned that she could be the person to inspire young people to become an animal doctor in our world today. During her graduate studies, she worked at a small animal hospital, her love of science, medicine, desire to help animals and educate pet owners all helped solidify her desire to be a veterinarian. It is the culmination of her education and these experiences that cemented her desire to pursue veterinary medicine. Not only will she help provide a better quality of life for all animals worldwide but will also strive to educate the public on how to support and protect the lives of their own animals and the ones they share the Earth with. Munoz is currently working as a Neurology Veterinary Technician at ACCESS Specialty Animal Hospitals in Culver City, California.
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.
Kevin Ramirez Gomez & Michelle Marinich
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 in the SAVMA General Board, he is also part of the ZEW club and RUSVM Broad Spectrum, where he hopes to gain more knowledge in exotic animal care, while being part of such a powerful community.
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.
Elizabeth Aga & Daniela Lopez
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 RUSVM 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.
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 PR sparked when she had the opportunity to participate in Spayathons for Puerto Rico in providing HVHQSN clinics. After working with ViDAS for 5 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.
Suji Kim & Marissa Matthews
Suji is from Brooklyn, NY and got her undergraduate degree at Boston College, where she studied Clinical Psychology and volunteered as a student EMT. Her first animal experience was in High School as an assistant caretaker at the Wild Bird Fund in NYC. 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.
Shea Noonan & Jessica Guyett
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 EMT 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 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 DI, ASRP, 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.
Anthony Elhinn & Madison Bland
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.
Maddy is from Minneapolis, MN and has a B.S. 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.
Julie Fithian & Caitlyn Yunker
Julie is from Long Island, NY and graduated from Stony Brook University with a B.S 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, 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, 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 B.S. 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, for 2 years before being accepted to RUSVM. Back home she has one dog named Luna. Here at RUSVM she is active in the RUSVM chapter of Student Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society, of which she was the Vice President for 3 semesters. She is hoping to become board certified in Emergency and Critical Care after her time here at Ross University.
Valeria Benitez & Adriana Luna
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
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 (Veterinarians as One Inclusive Community for Empowerment) 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 May 2020
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