HR Update

“I’ve been able to thrive at the Veterinary Medical Center (VMC). Over my 25 years at the VMC, I have developed my skills, taught students, mentored new hires, and worked with some of the finest clinicians and technicians in the field! I've presented continuing education lectures and supported new ways to improve our work culture. 

“Years ago, Dr. Trevor Ames [former dean of the VMC] invited me to be part of a pilot DEI initiative to help guide our community toward more inclusive practices. And now, Pat Berzins and I are shaping outreach to under-represented groups of high school and middle school students to help them explore careers in veterinary medicine! This is close to my heart as the first veterinary technician of African descent and part Native American (Blackfoot Indian) to be hired at the VMC. 

“A few of my memorable career highlights would be caring for a newborn baby orangutan from Como Zoo whose mother needed a C-section. I was able to monitor, hold, and feed baby Jaya in his first days of life. It was an amazing experience! Also, I was overjoyed to receive VMC awards for teaching and several for excellence in the field. These were profoundly meaningful and affirming honors.

“As a minister, I have officiated many staff weddings and baby dedications. I love, trust, and respect my VMC family and count myself extremely blessed to be doing what I love at the Lewis Small Animal Hospital. A lot of good things happen here! There’s a real sense of community, and I believe the best is yet to come.”—Rosemary Klass, Senior Veterinary Technician, AFSCME Unit 7 - Technical

Learn more about veterinary technician jobs at the Veterinary Medical Center.