NAVTA’s Veterinary Technician of the YearSam Geiling, CVT
NAVTA’s Veterinary Technician of the Year award is presented to a NAVTA member who has provided leadership and contributed to the association and the overall betterment of the Veterinary Technology profession.
Geiling is the Chief of Staff for Animal Policy Group and serves as Co-Chair of NAVTA’s Government Relations Committee (GRC). She is a credentialed veterinary technician with over 15 years of experience and holds an AAS in veterinary animal health technology from Central Carolina Community College.
“I am honored to be recognized as NAVTA’s Veterinary Technician of the Year,” Geiling said. “This past year has brought a lot of recognition for veterinary technicians, and I am proud to work closely with the Government Relations Committee to ensure vet tech leaders in every state have the tools they need to make advancements for the profession. I want to be clear that my leadership on the GRC is possible because of veterinary technician advocates who have come through the ranks before me, and many of them are continuing their advocacy journey alongside us. As the GRC knows well, I am an optimist, and I know the future of veterinary medicine is bright. Let’s continue to work together and ensure credentialed veterinary technicians and veterinary assistants are elevated in every state.”
In nominating Sam, her colleague wrote:
Sam’s remarkable dedication, profound impact on the veterinary community, and unwavering commitment to the advancement of our profession make her an ideal candidate for this esteemed award.
Sam’s journey as a Navy veteran speaks to her strong sense of duty and service, qualities that she has seamlessly transferred to the field of veterinary technology. Her contributions to NAVTA have been nothing short of remarkable. Even before being officially recognized, Sam was already laboring diligently behind the scenes. In 2022, her exceptional efforts were acknowledged when she was appointed as Co-chair of NAVTA’s Government Relations Committee (GRC). Under her leadership, the GRC has achieved unprecedented success in a relatively short period.
One of the most impressive feats achieved by Sam and her GRC team is the mobilization of over 25 states to address vital issues. These include securing title protection in states where it was lacking, advocating for veterinary technician representation on the state board in Missouri, spearheading the creation of a state association in Connecticut, and providing vital support for Scope of Practice in Kentucky, among numerous other accomplishments. Sam’s leadership and determination have been instrumental in driving these initiatives to success, which has had a significant positive impact on our profession nationwide.
NAVTA congratulates its 2023 Veterinary Technician of the Year, Sam Geiling!
NAVTA’s Student Chapter of the Year (2023-2024 Academic Year)Blue Ridge Community College
Blue Ridge Community College, in Weyers Cave, VA, is the 2024 Student Chapter of the Year.
The chapter has been active for over four decades, and its mission includes promoting “the profession of veterinary technology, to educate and inform the public about responsible pet care, to enhance the human/companion animal body, and facilitate good relations between on-campus and distance education students.”
During the 2023-2024 school year, the Chapter achieved the following endeavors:
Blue Ridge Community College’s NAVTA student chapter stood out with these accomplishments and was ultimately selected from eleven other nominations.
Congratulations to BRCC, SCNAVTA Chapter of the Year!
NAVTA’s Student Chapter Advisor of the YearNicole Getzloff, CVT
Northcentral Technical College
Nicole Getzloff, CVT, the advisor of the Northcentral Technical College (NTC) Student Chapter of NAVTA, is this year’s Advisor of the Year.
Nicole was nominated by three students and a member of staff at NTC. She was praised for her exceptional commitment to the growth and development of NTC’s SCNAVTA student members. As the club’s creator and advisor for the past two years, Nicole has shown unparalleled dedication, enthusiasm, and support, guiding the club through various initiatives and challenges.
Nicole’s remarkable contributions include her dedication to the personal and academic growth of members, offering mentorship, guidance, and resources, and organizing workshops. She prioritizes the well-being and success of students, fostering a community of inclusivity and support.
Her involvement extends beyond the club, collaborating with NTC’s Professional Agriculture Students (PAS) Club, organizing vaccine clinics, and working with the Beta Rho Zeta Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society on community projects. Nicole raises awareness of mental health in the veterinary field and encourages student participation in various activities.
Nicole’s leadership, dedication, and support have profoundly impacted NTC’s SCNAVTA members and the organization. She is highly deserving of recognition for her exceptional service and commitment.
Congratulations, Nicole Getzloff, SCNAVTA Advisor of the Year!
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