Unsung Heroes Awards
AVMA’s Unsung Heroes Awards shine a light on the veterinary team members whose hard work and dedication often go unnoticed. These individuals work by our sides, and sometimes behind the scenes, as veterinary technicians, assistants, customer service representatives, kennel workers, groomers, and in many other roles. Whether they’re working with animals, communicating with clients, or keeping our practices running smoothly, they have one thing in common: a tireless and exemplary level of commitment to the veterinary profession.
Help us recognize the impact of these dedicated individuals by submitting your nomination for an Unsung Hero. Please note, you do not have to be an AVMA member to submit a nomination.
Nominations are open
Nominations will be accepted through March 21, 2025, for the 2025 Unsung Heroes Awards. The AVMA will choose 10 winners, who will each receive an Unsung Hero Award plaque. One grand-prize winner will receive complimentary registration to attend AVMA Convention 2025.
Who can be an Unsung Hero?
An Unsung Hero can be anyone in a veterinary position who is not a veterinarian. These individuals have made significant contributions or demonstrated exceptional qualities—like selflessly helping others or making positive changes in their community—but have not yet been recognized or honored. Unsung Heroes are often humble, dedicated, and driven by a genuine desire to make a difference.
Past winners: Meet the 2024 Unsung Heroes
Lana Koehn
This veterinary technician is known for her meticulous attention to detail. She approaches each task with precision, ensuring the comfort and care of every animal she encounters.
Koehn efficiently juggles the demands of her career with the responsibilities of parenthood, making her nurturing spirit evident both in the clinic and at home. Always ready to lend a hand to colleagues and clients alike, she embodies teamwork and community.
Sabrina Kirkland
Kirkland, described as “client service coordinator extraordinaire,” has an infectious positivity and unwavering reliability that make her the cornerstone of client care. With a smile that lights up the room, she ensures every pet owner feels valued and understood.
Kirkland’s attitude and hard work ethic shine through in everything she does, from coordinating appointments to managing client inquiries.
Janet Fítzsímon-Barr
This client service coordinator stands as a pillar of kindness and compassion. Her unwavering kindness is a beacon of comfort, making each client feel valued and cared for.
Fítzsímon-Barr’s reliability is the bedrock of her clinic's operations. From scheduling appointments to addressing client inquiries, she approaches each task with dedication and diligence. She also is willing to go above and beyond, whether that means staying late to accommodate a last-minute appointment or offering a comforting word to a worried pet owner. Her generosity knows no bounds.
Derick Cazares
Cazares is not only lead veterinary technician, but also unofficial chief culture officer for his clinic. Over the years, he has evolved from a shy presence to a respected leader among his peers, demonstrating humility and genuine kindness in all his interactions.
As the eldest son of an immigrant family, Cazares’ passion for veterinary medicine fueled his determination, overcoming adversity at every turn. His commitment to his field has advanced his professional aspirations as well as spurred his personal growth.
Meagan Meyer
Meyer is not just a skilled technician; she’s a trailblazer. Despite facing the challenge of deafness, her resilience and dedication set her apart. In a field where clear communication is vital, she works to teach her colleagues sign language, fostering a more inclusive and understanding workplace.
In the world of veterinary care, Meyer shines as a testament to the power of perseverance and the ability to turn challenges into triumphs.