National Association for Black Veterinarians

4th of July! 🇺🇸 Today, as we celebrate freedom and independence, let's also remember the importance of diversity, equity, inclusion, and access in all aspects of our society, including the veterinary medical profession. It's crucial that everyone, regardless of race, has equal opportunities to pursue their passion for caring for animals. Let's continue to work towards a more inclusive and equitable future for all aspiring Black veterinarians. #IndependenceDay #DEI #DEIA #VeterinaryMedicine #EqualityForAll #SNABV 🐾

IN TWO DAYS DR. Twila Barradas & I LEAVE TO SPEAK/PRESENT AT THE National Association for Black Veterinarians CONFERENCE IN NOLA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Long ago she said yes when everyone else literally said no and has become an incredibly important person in my life and the lives of underserved pet families in the whole city of Gary who we are happy to serve. She’s not only a partner but a stranger who turned into a friend!!! First off we have a bad ass slideshow but more importantly what we have to present is vital and essential to pass on to hopefully empower others!

Silverstray and Dr. Twila Barradas are en route to New Orleans to the National Association for Black Veterinarians conference!!!!! Silverstray’s Silver Lining model for Gary is making an impact across the nation as we speak on keeping pet families together in underserved marginalized communities 🖤

WE DID IT!!!!!! Silverstray alongside Dr. Twila Barradas presented the Silver Lining Gary program model at the National Association for Black Veterinarians conference in New Orleans today. One of the most inspiring things to hear is Dr. Barradas share how important it is to her to see a little girls eyes light up when she sees someone who looks like her taking care of their beloved family pet. 🖤🩶

National Association for Black Veterinarians conference has been an incredible opportunity to witness colleagues sharing their expertise and knowledge with Doctors of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) and Veterinary Medicine students. With less than 2 percent of DVMs being Black or African American, the conference is dedicated to addressing this disparity through initiatives centered around education, mentorship, and improving access to the field. Dr. Michael Bailey, Medical Director and Radiologist IDEXX took the stage this morning and immediately captivated the audience with his unique analogy, drawing parallels between the ancient Mastodon and the bustling Mastotermite. As he painted a vivid picture of these creatures, he seamlessly wove in insights about collaboration, team diversity, and the crucial role each individual plays in fostering a thriving ecosystem—much like the intricate dynamics of modern teams and workplaces. The conversation didn't stop there. Katie Wellman, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility and Diversity at IDEXX, joined a panel of DEI leaders from other parts of the veterinary industry, igniting a dynamic discussion on the initiatives happening within IDEXX. With transparency and passion, Katie shared the journey toward building a truly inclusive work environment, highlighting the invaluable contributions of employee-led communities in driving progress. Yet, she also acknowledged the challenges ahead, sparking thoughtful reflections among attendees about the ongoing work needed to create lasting change. As the panel concluded, the energy lingered over a delicious lunch, where colleagues from IDEXX and a few leaders from other organizations engaged in discussions inspired by the day's revelations. In this bustling exchange of ideas, connections were forged, perspectives were widened, and the seeds of future collaborations were sown, echoing the conference's overarching theme of "Breaking Barriers to Veterinary Medicine: Working Together to Address Systemic Barriers to Access.” #idexxers #diversityequityinclusion #careerdevelopment #allyship #collaboration #partnership

To my second year of going to the National Association for Black Veterinarians conference here in New Orleans. To keep it short and sweet, I almost cried. This experience was truly a blessing. I was surrounded by so many great minds and others who looked like me in the same field. It was remarkable! I give all my thanks to our beautiful founder Annie Daniel and to all of the sponsors, who made this happen. I have made so many connections, business acquaintances, and even friends that I know will have my back in my future endeavors in the field of Veterinary Medicine. I wish everyone the best of luck that I met, including those who are in Vet school, and those who are taking a gap year just like me. Please keep pushing and trying your hardest! We are making a huge difference and I can’t wait to continue to see that in the future. With a BIG warm heart, thank you! 💜🥹 #NABV #diversity #equity #inclusion #Empowerment #VeterinaryMedicine #GeauxTigers #LSU

This year I attended my second National Association for Black Veterinarians (NABV) conference in New Orleans! it was so amazing to be in a room full of people who look like me, want me to succeed, and are willing to help me get there. I got to meet so many other students and professional who gave great advice as I start my journey through vet school. Looking forward to being back next year!

This past weekend I was lucky to be able to attend the National Association for Black Veterinarians in New Orleans and be surrounded by people in my desired field. Not only was it an eye opening experience, it was also motivating and inspiring while also being informative!! Thank you once again NABV for having me!!

So thankful for this wonderful opportunity to network with so many great companies. This past week, I attended the Student national association for black veterinarians (SNABV) and NABV (national association for black veterinarians) in New Orleans. Not only did I connect with some old colleagues of mine from undergrad at Fort Valley State university that are now halfway through vet school, I met with one of the most infamous alums from my current veterinary school at St.George. Brittney Kilgore, DVM, CVA Youtube videos of her veterinary journey and her now accomplished goal of owning her own cat clinic after graduating less than 2 years later, is quite impressive. Last but not least, I spoke with the the owners of one of the few Black veterinarian shows in america. Critter fixer. Both Terrence Ferguson and Vernard Hodges have graduated from my undergrad and successfully recived their DVM from Tuskegee university and I can’t say how much I have been inspired by their work and the other companies that were presented throughout the conference. THANK YOU for the opportunity NABV, until next time! #National Association for Black Veterinarians #St. George's University #Fort Valley State University