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Wishing you a joyous Holiday and a healthy New Year
Warm regards,
CVMA Board of Directors and Staff
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Dr. Kelly Cairns, DVM, MS, DACVIM (SAIM)
2026 CVMA President
We are pleased to congratulate and welcome Dr. Cairns as the 2026 President of CVMA. Her energy and knowledge throughout the years has brought fresh ideas to support the needs of the veterinary medical community.
Dr. Kelly Cairns is a board-certified small animal internal medicine specialist, medical operations leader, educator, and consultant. She graduated from the Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2004, completed a small animal rotating internship at Cornell University in 2005, and finished her small animal internal medicine residency at The Ohio State University in 2008, at which time she achieved Diplomate status.
After a rewarding career as a practicing internist and multi-specialty/ER medical director, Dr. Cairns joined Thrive Pet Healthcare in 2018 as a senior medical operations leader, later serving five years as Vice President of Medical Excellence and Education for nearly 400 hospitals nationwide. In this role, she created and built the Medical Excellence and Education department from the ground up, developing its programs, resources, and organizational structure to elevate clinical quality, medical culture, and professional development across the national network.
Dr. Cairns is currently an adjunct faculty member at Lincoln Memorial University College of Veterinary Medicine, where she contributes to veterinary education and curriculum design. Additionally, she is a dvm360 Editorial Board member and a Wedgewood Advisory Board member, extending her impact across veterinary media, continuing education, and industry partnerships. An international lecturer, Dr. Cairns speaks on veterinary education models, clinical internal medicine, leadership development, and profession-related well-being.
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2026 CVMA BOARD MEMBERS
The CVMA Board of Directors is committed to following the mission and vision of the Association while ensuring fiduciary strength and sustainability. We welcome and look forward to the insight, leadership, and partnership of the CVMA 2026 Board of Directors.
Officers
President: Dr. Kelly Cairns
Secretary: Dr. Karen Woodard
Treasurer: Dr. Bryan Ernsting
Past President: Dr. Sophia Gill
At-Large Board Members
Dr. Ajaz Alvi, Dr. Lori Coughlin, Dr. Cassie Van Hoof
Dr. Jennie Culen, Dr. Nicolette Sliwa
Dr. Rebecca Naas, Dr. Ana Valbuena, Dr. Stephanie Suchy
Learn more about the members of the Board of Directors.
| | 2025 CVMA Award Recipients | |
The Lifetime Service Award honors a member for long-standing, impactful service and meaningful contributions that advanced the mission, programs, and professional goals of the Chicago Veterinary Medical Association. This year’s recipient, Dr. Rae Ann Van Pelt, exemplifies a professional who promotes modern veterinary medicine through her practice and her work with emergency clinics and specialty. Congratulations, Dr. Van Pelt.
The President’s Service Award is earned by a professional who has made substantial contributions to CVMA through sustained service over a career or noteworthy recent accomplishments. This year’s recipient started Burnham Park Animal Hospital in 1994 and has served on the CVMA Board of Directors. Dr. Bruederle has coordinated the PE Committee’s participation in White Sox Dog Days for the past 25 years. He is dedicated to creating safe and humane communities by promoting positive relationships between people and animals. Congratulations to Dr. J.B. Bruederle.
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NEW: CVMA U ONLINE COURSES
Starts April 8: Online Course – Emergency and Critical Care (ECC) for the General Practitioner
Presenter: Caroline Tonozzi, DVM, DACVECC
Starts October 7: Online Course – Internal Medicine in Real Life: Practical Strategies for Your Toughest Chronic Cases
Presenter: Kelly Cairns, DVM, MS, DACVIM (Small Animal Internal Medicine)
CVMA U Online offers best-in-class continuing education courses for the veterinary professional. Online education is an easy and convenient option to gain lifelong learning from anywhere with a computer and internet connection. The courses are facilitated by renown subject-matter experts covering relevant information for the veterinary profession. Each course is approved for six (6) AAVSB-RACE continuing education credit hours.
Here is how the program works
- The courses are divided into three, two-hour live virtual sessions scheduled to take place on Wednesdays from 12:30-2:30pm CT. If unable to attend the live session, students will receive a link to the recorded session.
- Registrants receive course materials via their email accounts.
- The instructor presents information while showing the power point on the screen.
- Students have time for live questions and discussions that are included on the recorded link.
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All who successfully complete the course receive the letter of completion.
LEARN MORE. REGISTER.
If you have questions, please contact Marcy at cvma@chicagovma.org or at 630.325.1231
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2026 CVMA U In-Person Course Schedule
The CVMA U In-Person Courses are premier courses for those in the field of veterinary medicine. Each course is approved for six (6) AAVSB-RACE continuing education credit hours. All 2026 CVMA In-Person Courses take place at the Brookfield Zoo Discovery Center.
March 11 – Surgery Unleashed: Tips and Tricks for Successful Outcomes
Presenter: Philippa Pavia, VMD, DACVS-SA with Lisa Mason DVM, CCRT, CVA, CVPP
May 6 – Parasitology
Presenter: Andy Moorhead, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVM
June 17 – Toxicology
Presenter: Renee D. Schmid, DVM, DABT, DABVT
September 16 – Chronic Enteropathies
Presenter: Kasey Mabry, DVM, MS, DACVIM-SA
November 11 – Oncology
Presenter: Timothy M. Fan, DVM, PhD, DACVIM
December 16 – Radiology
Presenter: Marc Lee, DVM, DACVR
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CE courses are tax deductible as allowed by the law. | | | | |
YOUR CVMA MEMBERSHIP
WE ARE ABOUT YOU
Thank you to all who have renewed your CVMA memberships or have joined for the first time. We will be adding additional value-added member benefits in 2026 and are interested in what you need. We currently have partnerships with attorneys, mental health experts, business services professionals, and wealth management experts. The "whipped cream" on these benefits is a partnership that gives discounts on travel, entertainment, technology tools, and more.
Please let us know what we can add to help meet your needs by sharing them with Marcy at cvma@chicagovma.org.
CVMA is about you.
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Rejoin. Join.
Dues are tax deductible in accordance with the law. You still have time for a potential dues tax deduction for 2025. Check with a financial professional.
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REFER A NEW MEMBER AND RECEIVE AMAZON GIFT CARDS
Extended through January 15, 2026
As easy as 1, 2, 3
- Refer potential members to join the organization who are not currently members
- Have them put you on the registration form as the referring member
- CVMA will send you an Amazon gift card of $25 for each new-member referral who joins
Help us build the membership which builds the strength of veterinary medicine.
STRENGTH IS IN NUMBERS
Forward this flyer/application form to a potential new member today.
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Articles for the Veterinary Professional
CVMA has developed a library of relevant and current articles for our members. We strive to bring you the information you need. If you have written an article or would like to share one that would benefit the CVMA community, send the article to Michele at mcohen@chicagovma.org.
Below are some current articles for you, the veterinary professional.
Cannabis in Veterinary Medicine
AVMA News
The circumstances under which veterinary clinicians encounter cannabis-derived products are quite varied. A classic scenario is that of a patient exposed to marijuana plant material intended for the owner’s recreational use; in recent years, products such as edibles, concentrates, or vaping devices may also be involved. However, unintentional exposures of recreational products represent only one aspect of cannabis in veterinary medicine. More.
Computed tomographic features of renal neoplasms in dogs: introduction of the collateral vessel sign in veterinary medicine
AVMA News December 5, 2025
32 dogs with histologically and cytologically confirmed renal tumors were included. Computed tomography scans were reviewed for qualitative parameters: lesions number, size, margins, enhancement pattern, mineralization, laterality, intrarenal location, hemorrhage, lymphadenopathy, pulmonary metastases and collateral vessels. More.
Understanding oncology diagnostics and therapeutics
DVM 360 December 3, 2025
What can primary care veterinarians do to provide care to patients with cancer? These approaches can help guide treatment. Staging is a critical step in cancer patient management, but it does not always require referral to a specialist to be performed effectively. Most staging procedures—such as complete blood count, serum chemistry panel, cytologic evaluation of regional lymph nodes, and 3-view thoracic radiographs—are standard diagnostic tests readily available in general practice. More.
Development of a proptosis model as a surgical training tool for veterinary students and practitioners
Vet Record December 2, 2025
Effective training is fundamental to the development of critical skills for emergency veterinary interventions. This study presents a synthetic canine proptosis model designed to train veterinary interns, final-year students and practitioners, offering an ethical, reproducible and high-fidelity option for learning proptosis management. The model aims to simulate key anatomical and mechanical features of the canine eye, providing a hands-on experience in a high-fidelity setting. More.
Top questions on New World screwworm: What every veterinarian should know
DVM 360 December 1, 2025
New World screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax) is once again an active threat in the Americas. Cases in Mexico have risen and detections are approaching the US border, while federal agencies and veterinary groups have released guidance for clinicians on identification, laboratory submission, reporting, and therapeutic options. More.
Normalize pet nutrition conversations at every veterinary visit
AVMA News November 17, 2025
As pet obesity rates continue to climb nationwide, nutrition is top of mind for pet owners and veterinarians alike. The Purina Institute Handbook of Canine and Feline Well-Pet Nutrition, launched in August, provides evidence-based recommendations for veterinary care teams to help them prioritize pet nutrition in practice. The handbook is available for free with a sign-up for scientific communications from the institute. More.
| | Veterinary Clinical Trials | | |
Connecting Pet Owners and Veterinarians with Veterinary Clinical Trials
CVMA's mission includes advancing veterinary medicine to protect animal welfare and public health. One way this occurs is through clinical studies and trials. The AVMA Veterinary Clinical Trials Registry provides information about current trial opportunities. More.
| | Supporting the Future of Animal Health | |
CVMA Support Veterinary Students
The Future of Animal Health
CVMA is committed to fostering the next generation of veterinary professions. The support includes guiding students as they navigate their educational goals and connecting aspiring veterinarians with professional development opportunities and mentorship. Our members represent the best in the field of veterinary medicine and realize the importance of sharing their experiences and expertise with those who will be the future of veterinary medicine.
Our student programs include the following:
Veterinary Student Corner
An exclusive resource created specifically for our student members, the Veterinary Student Corner provides a centralized hub of tools, guidance, and opportunities designed to support students throughout their veterinary education. By logging into the student portal, members gain access to a wide range of curated content tailored to academic success, professional growth, and personal wellbeing.
“My Veterinary Life” Resources
Through the My Veterinary Life platform, students and early career veterinarians can explore an extensive collection of resources focused on career development, wellness, and financial literacy. MyVeterinaryLife.com was created to gather and organize information uniquely relevant to emerging professionals. It offers tools to help students navigate career pathways, foster resilience, and manage the financial demands of both school and early practice life.
“Taking a Financial Selfie” Presentation
Students also have access to the Taking a Financial Selfie PowerPoint presentation—an informative and practical guide to setting and achieving financial goals. This resource breaks down budgeting, debt management, and long-term planning in a way that empowers students to make confident financial decisions.
Externship and Shadowing Opportunities
Our student portal includes a comprehensive, exclusive list of hospitals offering externships and shadowing opportunities. These experiences allow students to gain real-world clinical exposure, build professional connections, and explore different areas of veterinary medicine in a supportive setting.
Coming in 2026: CVMA Student Mentorship Program
We are developing a hearty student mentorship program which will connect students with experienced veterinarians who will be available to answer questions and to provide an ear to those working toward their educational goals in animal welfare. Stay tuned for more information.
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CVMA Partners with Veterinary Schools of Higher Learning
As part of our commitment to supporting the next generation of veterinary professionals, CVMA is pleased to partner with schools of higher learning. Below are updates from Deans and students of universities.
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Cancer Discovery for Pets and People: Only at U of I
By Peter Constable, Dean of the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine
For the past year, we’ve watched the new Animal Cancer Care Center rise on the south end of our Small Animal Clinic, with its official opening planned for next year. Equally exciting is the rapid growth of our oncology clinical trials team. We now have more than a dozen active trials for patients with osteosarcoma, oral melanoma, oral squamous cell carcinoma, and other cancers, with more on the way. These partially to fully funded trials offer access to cutting-edge treatments aimed at advancing and improving standard cancer care. More.
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CVMA Student Representatives serve as liaisons between their veterinary school and the Association. They help share CVMA news, educational opportunities, events, and initiatives with their peers, while also bringing student perspectives and ideas back to our leadership.
CVMA's representatives are Tess Santoro, Britt Kiokemeister, and Becca Chenoweth. Britt and Becca spoke at a CVMA-catered Open House orientation lunch lecture for the entire veterinary student body on September 4th, 2025. They shared how students can become involved with CVMA while students learned their roles and responsibilities for the Vet Med Open House on October 5, 2025. The annual Vet Med Open House is U of I's biggest community event of the year. Students showcase veterinary medicine through tours, demonstrations, and interactive exhibits. If you would like to be involved in next year's event, contact Marcy at cvma@chicagovma.org.
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By Coretta C. Patterson, DVM, DACVIM-SA, PG Cert Vet Med Ed, Dean of Midwestern University
Midwestern University, a graduate healthcare institution based in Downers Grove, continues to make steady progress on its proposed Chicago College of Veterinary Medicine (CCVM). On November 12, 2025, the Illinois Board of Higher Education approved the program, authorizing MWU to grant the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M.) degree. This follows a positive visit in May from the American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Education as the University advances toward full AVMA accreditation.
Several key facilities are also taking shape. The new academic building in Downers Grove, where many CCVM courses will be taught, is on track for completion this spring. In addition, the companion animal clinic, located at 3300 Finley Road, Downers Grove, is expected to open in spring 2027. With these milestones underway, CCVM remains on schedule to welcome its first class of students in August 2028.
CVMA will be collaborating with Midwestern University in 2026 to hold a wet lab and more at the campus. Stay tuned for more information.
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Veterinary Technician Accredited Schools
AVMA is the accreditation body for Veterinary Technician schools. It has stringent requirements and site visits to ensure the quality of education. The following are AVMA approved Veterinary Technician schools in Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin.
- Gateway Technical College; Elkhorn, WI
- Madison College; Madison, WI
- Purdue University-Campus; West Lafayette, IN
- Purdue University-DL; West Lafayette, IN
- Rockford Career College; Rockford, IL
- Vet Tech Institute at Fox College; Tinley Park, IL
- Vet Tech Institute of Indiana; Indianapolis, IN
See the full list of currently approved AVMA Veterinary Technician schools in the United States.
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Public Act 104-0080 (SB0291) – One Health Commission Act
Final Report due January 1, 2028
Public Act 104-0080 creates the Illinois One Health Commission within the Department of Public Health, effective January 1, 2026. The Act recognizes the interconnected nature of human, animal, and environmental health and aims to improve statewide collaboration across these sectors.
The Commission is tasked with developing a strategic One Health plan that promotes interdisciplinary communication among physicians, veterinarians, environmental scientists, and relevant state agencies. Its responsibilities include recommending best practices for cross-sector collaboration, supporting responses to zoonotic disease outbreaks, promoting science-based public health strategies, helping develop surveillance methods for emerging threats, and advancing education on antibiotic stewardship and alternatives.
Membership includes leaders or designees from major state agencies, experts from academia, licensed physicians and veterinarians, and a representative from a safety-net medical facility.
The Commission must issue a final report by January 1, 2028, outlining the One Health Framework, assessing surveillance and response systems, and recommending policy improvements. Updates must be provided every two years, and reports must be posted on the participating agencies’ public websites. More.
| | Winter Holiday Pet Safety | | |
Pet Safety in Cold Weather
Brrrrrrr
People who live in areas experiencing cold weather and winter storms need to take extra precautions to keep their animals safe. Pets left to fend for themselves in cold weather are susceptible to injury and death. Share with pet owners to help minimize pet distress. More.
| | Featured Value-Added Benefit for Members | | |
Personalized Mental Health Care Connection
This service is contracted by CVMA and is a benefit for members and their families. The program is designed to reduce the stress and time it often takes to find appropriate professional mental health care. Participants receive confidential and personalized assistance navigating in-person and virtual care options that align with their preferences, insurance, and availability.
CVMA members are not charged any additional fees from the providers. More.
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Attorney Practices
CVMA has a partnership with two attorney practices that have experience with veterinary medicine and general legal needs. As a CVMA member, you will receive lower rates from our partners for their services. Access these services and additional value-added member benefits.
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Our CVMA CommUNITY is linked by a common purpose. We are committed to the advancement of veterinary medicine, the welfare of animals, and the public health. Through the CommUNITY program, information is shared with the public to help fulfill this commitment. The following are some of the areas of unification:
Pet and Owner Aid - CVMA is dedicated to the animal and human bond. Realizing that challenges exist for some owners to afford food and wellness care for their pets, we are pleased to partner with the following organization whose mission is to meet these needs.
LinkShare - LinkShare serves as a centralized directory of trusted, high-quality resources designed to provide support.
Public Education - The Public Education Committee is dedicated to fostering a deeper public understanding of the vital role that veterinarians play in safeguarding animal health, advancing public health, and enhancing the well-being of communities.
Find a Veterinarian - CVMA members are the best-in-the field of veterinary medicine. This area connects the public with them for their pet needs.
If you have additional information to share to help build CommUNITY and to meet societal needs, please contact Michele Cohen at mcohen@chicagovma.org.
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Wings – Pet Loss Support Group
Losing a beloved animal companion can be one of life’s most painful experiences. For many people, pets are family—sources of comfort, routine, and unconditional love. When they pass, the grief can feel overwhelming, isolating, or difficult to express. Recognizing this need for compassionate support, the CVMA established Wings, a free Pet Loss Support Group, in 2001. Since then, Wings has helped countless individuals navigate the emotional journey of pet loss with understanding, validation, and community. Share with your clients, friends, or family who can use support if grieving the loss of a pet. More.
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Our Mission
The Chicago Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) is a 501(c)6 non-profit organization that advances the veterinary profession through advocacy, engagement, and enrichment while protecting animal welfare and public health.
cvma@chicagovma.org | www.chicagovma.org
630.325.1231
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