NAVTA’s Veterinary Technician of the YearLinda Markland, RVT
The National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) proudly announces that Linda Markland, RVT has been named the 2025 Veterinary Technician of the Year, the association’s highest honor recognizing outstanding contributions to the veterinary technology profession.
NAVTA’s Veterinary Technician of the Year Award is presented annually to a Credentialed Veterinary Technician who demonstrates exceptional leadership, professional excellence, and significant impact on the advancement of veterinary nursing and technology. The award also recognizes individuals who contribute meaningfully to NAVTA’s mission, strategic initiatives, and the broader veterinary community.
Linda Markland’s career spans more than four decades and exemplifies dedication to clinical practice, education, leadership, corporate innovation, and volunteer service. She began her career in general practice in California, developing expertise in anesthesia, dentistry, emergency care, and preventive medicine. Her calm, compassionate presence, and ability to anticipate patient needs have earned her the trust of clients and colleagues alike.
Following her clinical practice, Markland transitioned into education, training veterinary technician students and shaping future professionals. She later joined VPI (now Nationwide Pet Insurance), where she played a pivotal role in expanding pet insurance options for veterinary teams nationwide.
Markland’s leadership and volunteer contributions are extensive. She has served on NAVTA’s Global Outreach and Continuing Education Committees; acted as program committee chair for VetPartners; served as Veterinary Technician Education Manager for WVC; and has been the long-standing Practice Management Chair for the PACVET conference. In 2023, she was elected to the Viticus Group Board of Directors.
Throughout her career, Markland has been a mentor, educator, and advocate, supporting practice managers, veterinary technician students, new graduates, and colleagues. Her advocacy has strengthened recognition of the essential role credentialed veterinary technicians play within veterinary healthcare teams.
“Linda Markland embodies the compassion, professionalism, and leadership that define our field,” said Mary L. Berg, BS, LATG, RVT, VTS (Dentistry), who nominated Markland for the award. “Her lifelong commitment to advancing veterinary medicine and supporting her colleagues makes her truly deserving of this honor.”
NAVTA congratulates its 2025 Veterinary Technician of the Year, Linda Markland
NAVTA’s Student Chapter of the Year (2025-2026 Academic Year)The Asociación de Estudiantes de Tecnología Veterinaria at Universidad Ana G. Méndez–Barceloneta, Puerto Rico
The chapter demonstrated exceptional commitment to veterinary technology education, community engagement, and One Health principles throughout the 2025–2026 academic year. Through a wide range of initiatives, students contributed to the care of more than 1,100 animals through vaccination, spay/neuter, and adoption efforts across Puerto Rico, including underserved communities with limited access to veterinary care.
These efforts were made possible through partnerships with organizations including Banfield, Boehringer Ingelheim, PetSmart Charities, MOSPBA, Vets for PR, and the Puerto Rico Department of Health, extending the chapter’s impact through clinical services, public education, disease prevention, and responsible pet ownership initiatives.
A strong emphasis on One Health and experiential learning was reflected throughout the chapter’s programming. Students participated in World Rabies Day outreach in collaboration with the Puerto Rico Department of Health, helped educate communities about zoonotic disease prevention, gained hands-on experience in companion and large animal medicine, and participated in national conferences such as VMX to further their professional development.
Through its combination of community service, clinical training, and interdisciplinary collaboration, the chapter has demonstrated outstanding leadership, professionalism, and commitment to advancing the veterinary technology profession.
NAVTA’s Student Chapter Advisor of the YearRocio Paonessa, LVT
Vet Tech Institute Houston
Rocio Paonessa, LVT, advisor of the Vet Tech Institute Houston SCNAVTA Chapter in Houston, Texas, is the 2026 NAVTA Student Advisor of the Year.
Paonessa is recognized for her unwavering commitment to student success and her ability to foster an environment where future veterinary technicians are encouraged to grow as leaders, professionals, and advocates for the profession. As both a faculty member and chapter advisor, she provides individualized guidance, creates meaningful opportunities for hands-on learning, and inspires students to pursue excellence both inside and outside the classroom.
“Ms. Paonessa consistently encourages students to take initiative and provides meaningful opportunities for us to grow as future veterinary technicians,” said student Meg Unruh. “She is always accessible for guidance and support, and her mentorship has had a lasting impact on our confidence and professional development.”
In addition to mentoring students academically, Paonessa encourages participation in chapter activities, professional networking, and community service while empowering students to take ownership of projects and develop leadership skills. Her dedication to veterinary technology education, combined with her passion for mentoring the next generation of credentialed veterinary technicians, has made a lasting impact on her students and chapter.
Paonessa’s commitment to education, mentorship, and the advancement of the profession exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding student chapter advisor and makes her a deserving recipient of this national recognition.
