New Education Division staff come with experience

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Two veterinarians extensively familiar with the veterinary technician profession joined the AVMA staff this winter.

Drs. Karen M. Brandt and Kenneth A. Clever began work Nov. 17 and Dec. 1, 2008, respectively, as assistant directors in the Education and Research Division of the AVMA.

Dr. Brandt
Dr. Karen M. Brandt
Dr. Clever
Dr. Kenneth A. Clever

They provide professional staff support to the Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities. Dr. Brandt also supports the American Board of Veterinary Specialties.

Drs. Brandt and Clever have comprehensive backgrounds in veterinary technician education as they are former program directors. Dr. Brandt received her DVM degree from the University of Minnesota in 1983. She started teaching four years later at the University of Minnesota Technical College-Waseca veterinary technician program. Dr. Brandt became its program director in 1992 and held the position until the program ended in 1993.

Dr. Brandt said teaching veterinary technicians was a satisfying experience.

"We had very competent students who were excellent technicians. It makes your heart feel good to see how well they've done," she said.

Before and after her foray into veterinary technician education, Dr. Brandt spent many years in dairy and companion animal practice. She came from a practice in Mankato, Minn., prior to joining the AVMA staff.

"When I worked with the technicians, I saw how they really aid your ability to practice medicine," Dr. Brandt said.

Dr. Clever has directed three veterinary technician programs—Blue Ridge Community College, Weyers Cave, Va.; Wilson College, Chambersburg, Pa.; and Morehead State University, Morehead, Ky. Most recently he served as dean of career and technical programs at Durham Technical College in Durham, N.C.

Dr. Clever received his DVM degree from The Ohio State University in 1969 and worked as a mixed animal practitioner in Ohio before becoming involved in veterinary technician education, and eventually, community college administration.

Having been a program director for a number of years, Dr. Clever underwent a number of CVTEA onsite visits with AVMA staff.

"When the position became available, I welcomed the opportunity to apply my skills and knowledge to the accreditation process for veterinary technician programs and to become a member of the AVMA staff," Dr. Clever said.

Dr. Clever says is most excited about having the opportunity to make an impact on the future of veterinary technology and the empowerment of veterinary practices through effective use of veterinary technicians.