Veterinary Medical Officer
Office of New Animal Drug Evaluation

1. Why did you become a veterinarian?

When I was about 10, my grandfather suggested I read All Things Bright and Beautiful by James Herriot. Then he quickly said, “No, not this book. You have to read the first one.” About 3 years later I got a well-read copy of All Creatures Great and Small. I was hooked. I wanted to be James Herriot. I knew the days he practiced in were gone, but I also knew that I wanted to care for animals and have the kinds of relationships with animals and clients that he had. I still have my copy of that book, have read all his other books, and have a few stories of my own.

2. What made you want to work for CVM?

A friend of mine worked for CVM. This was a woman I thought would spend her career in a truck driving from one farm to the next. She seemed to really like her job. As an Army brat, I had always been intrigued with working for the federal government. When a position at CVM became available, I decided that if my friend liked her job so much, CVM must be a great place to work.

3. What is the best thing about being a veterinarian for CVM?

I am part of a system that ensures the health and well-being of animals and ensures that people have safe, wholesome, and affordable products from food animals. I never imagined being able to contribute to animal health and to my profession this way when I started veterinary school.

4. What does the veterinary profession mean to you?

My profession has been, is now, and always will be linked to public health and service to society.

5. What is your most memorable moment as a veterinarian?

The moment came before I was a veterinarian and started the journey. It is the early morning call I got offering me a position in the next class at the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine.