What is your current position within the veterinary profession?
Professor, equine surgery Oklahoma State University
Why do you think the VLI is an important organization for the veterinary profession?
There is essentially no other venue that teaches coping and leadership skills for the veterinary profession.
What are the top 3 things you learned during your week at VLE?
1. Pass it on
2. How to create open-ended dialogue
3. How important it is to develop a support network with colleagues
How are you putting what you learned at VLE into practice on a daily basis?
I have more group discussions with my students instead of “teaching” them. This happens daily with our cases in the clinic. I also now tend toward a team approach much more regularly. And, at the end of the day, I bring my group of students in so we can end with a positive encouragement. Finally, I learn how critical it is to have fun in the profession. Of course, we show professionalism with the client, but it is so important to take time to “let your hair down” with your students and colleagues.