Vet Tech students continue fundraising for summer conference
(Photo by J. Hare)
(From left to right) Reba Murphy, Rut Finnsdottit, and Brittany Hoffecker delightfully bantered with passersby and customers alike.
By Johnathan Hare
Members of the Veterinary Technician Club have been busy organizing fundraisers for an educational conference this summer, including several bake sales near the Jason Technology Center bookstore.
Club president Brittany Hoffecker, a second-year Vet Tech student, headed one of the bake sales and explained the requirements members had to complete to attend the conference.
“We have to participate in one school function, like Roady Fest, and then host a fundraiser,” said Hoffecker. “As the president, I have to help bring everyone together to help and volunteer.”
Reba Murphy, Vet Tech major, said there are currently 12 students contributing towards raising money and they also have to successfully complete the fall and spring semesters.
Lisa Garrison, the Vet Tech instructor and club advisor, talked more about the conference’s details and what her students could expect from the event.
The American Veterinary Medical Association holds an annual national conference, drawing veterinarians, technicians and staff, and students from all around. Every summer the location changes, with the 2016 conference being held in San Antonio, Texas.
“There are over forty-two hours of continuing education,” said Garrison. “There are sessions available that cover all kinds of species.”
The conference showcases many workshops, hands-on labs, and lectures, and will also showcase an exhibit featuring the latest products and technology, along with national-level employers, organizations, and four-year institutions scouting for possible recruits, said Garrison.
While the conference is free for the students and the school pays for a portion of the costs, they have to raise their own funds for transportation, lodging, and other travelling expenses.
“I hope to expose them to other technicians and veterinarians on a national level,” Garrison said. “Once they graduate, they’ll be required to continue attending education conferences, and this well help them in utilizing and navigating these events.”
The Vet Tech majors will be hosting more events and fundraisers in the coming months, including selling Yankee brand candles and holiday wreaths.
“We appreciate everyone’s support, and those who’ve come out to purchase goods,” said Garrison.
(Photo by J. Hare)
A plethora of baked goods and other snacks lined up for the picking.