The National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) announces the appointment of Dru Mellon, RVT, CVT, LVT, and Dewey Maddox, CVT, to its Board of Directors. These appointments fill recently vacated seats and have been approved by the NAVTA Board in accordance with NAVTA’s bylaws.
NAVTA invited applications from Credentialed Veterinary Technician members in good standing to fill the vacated Director seats. Applicants were required to meet eligibility criteria and had to answer several questions about NAVTA’s strategic aims. NAVTA received a record number of applications from Veterinary Technicians across the United States. The NAVTA President reviewed the candidates and recommended appointments to the Board for approval.
“It was incredibly rewarding to see the number and quality of applicants for the vacant Board seats,” said NAVTA President Jennifer Serling, MVEd, BVSc, AAS, CVT, RVT, VTES, FVTE. “It speaks volumes about the work NAVTA is doing and the desire for members to be involved in our positive progress. My work selecting just two applicants was difficult, but I have promised all who applied that we will keep them engaged in NAVTA through committee and task force work.”
Appointed to the Board were:
Dru Mellon, RVT, CVT, LVT – Appointed to a two-year term expiring January 2028, Mr. Mellon brings more than a decade of experience in veterinary anesthesia, emergency and critical care, and exotic animal medicine. He has contributed significantly to the rehabilitation of marine wildlife and served on the executive board of the Utah Society of Veterinary Technicians and Assistants. In 2020, Mr. Mellon was recognized by NAVTA as National Veterinary Technician of the Year for his leadership in establishing credentialing for veterinary technicians in Utah. His clinical expertise and professional leadership equip him to support NAVTA’s mission and serve its members effectively.
Dewey Maddox, CVT – Appointed to a one-year term expiring January 2027, Mr. Maddox has more than 15 years of experience in clinical and zoological veterinary medicine, including laboratory operations, diagnostic quality assurance, and evidence-based practices across multiple species, including large mammals. He currently serves as President of the Florida Veterinary Technician Association, advocating for professional standards, continuing education, and legislative engagement within the veterinary technician profession. Mr. Maddox’s extensive experience in leadership and collaboration positions him to contribute meaningfully to NAVTA’s strategic goals.
Both appointees remain eligible for election to the Board in subsequent terms. Their service in these appointed positions will not affect their eligibility for additional terms.
“Dru and Dewey exemplify leadership, expertise, and dedication to advancing the Credentialed Veterinary Technician profession,” Serling said. “Their knowledge and accomplishments will strengthen the Board’s ability to support NAVTA’s mission and serve our members.”