Help lead and promote the veterinary profession
Dr. Elizabeth Nunamaker discusses the different opportunities available to recent graduates and the different level of time commitment they entail.
No time or experience needed. Your local, state, and national organizations are always looking for fresh ideas that come with new people getting involved. Getting involved in organized veterinary medicine doesn't require a large time commitment or previous experience. There are a variety of ways for veterinarians to volunteer that are all adaptable to your individual needs.
Dr. Rene Carlson, Immediate-Past President of the AVMA, provides her top 10 tips on how to "make your mark" on the profession of veterinary medicine.
Personal leadership stories of young veterinarians
Everyone's path to leadership is unique. Below are two videos of AVMA Future Leaders who have served as Presidents of their state veterinary medical associations. In watching these videos, you will see that Libby and Chris's paths to leadership are incredibly different. Regardless if you are a born leader, like Libby, or just happen to stumble into leadership as Chris did, we hope you find your own path.
Dr. Christopher Gargamelli's path to leadership started as an opportunity to enjoy brunch. This video reveals how a simple start opened his eyes to the importance of organized veterinary medicine. Chris's story shows that no matter when or how your path to leadership begins, you can have an impact on the profession.
Dr. Libby Todd is a born leader. This video takes us through her path to leadership and showcases the many opportunities available to those wishing to serve as leaders in organized veterinary medicine. Libby's story shows that for those with the ability and motivation to serve, the possibilities are endless.
AVMA opportunities
The AVMA is primarily a volunteer-driven organization. The AVMA members that give of their time and energy to organized veterinary medicine primarily do so through work on AVMA committees, councils, and task forces. Please take a moment to look at the positions that are currently open in these entities and find a place where you can contribute to YOUR AVMA!
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a scientific advisor to a member of Congress? The AVMA offers annual opportunities to participate in the Congressional Fellowship Program in Washington, D.C. This is a unique opportunity to represent the veterinary profession in the legislative branch of our government.
Your AVMA is continually providing opportunities to improve your skills both as a veterinarian and as a leader in all aspects of your life. The Veterinary Leadership Conference, the Future Leaders Program, and the Veterinary Leadership Experience are all examples of these kinds of opportunities. Let the AVMA help you be the leader you want to be!
State and allied veterinary organizations
Consider getting involved at the local level in organized veterinary medicine. For example, you could participate in a local chapter of your state veterinary medical association or get involved with an allied organization of the AVMA.
Reading materials
Thousands of books have been written about leadership, and choosing the right ones can be overwhelming. Below are some personal favorites of the AVMA Future Leaders Class of 2011-2012.