Hello blendVET® Community,
As we step into fall, I want to pause and recognize that September 15-October 15 is Hispanic Heritage Month. For me, it’s personal. I am an Afro-Latina, and my identity shapes the way I show up in veterinary medicine every day. Representation matters because when you see someone who looks like you in this field, it says you belong here too. Heritage months remind us of the importance of identity, culture, and visibility—not just in our personal lives, but in the future of our profession.
A great way to bring Hispanic Heritage Month into your everyday practice is by taking our CE course, Building Cultural Humility and Communication Skills with the Latinx Community. It’s taught by Dr. Mariacamila Garcia Estrella, a proud Latina and Cornell grad, who walks us through how to better connect with Latinx clients—whether you’re running herd checks on a dairy farm or working in a busy small animal clinic.
Fall Youth Pathways: Three New Locations!
This fall, our Youth Pathways program is expanding to three new schools, giving middle and high school students a chance to experience veterinary medicine like never before. Students will engage in an interactive learning experience, earn six hours of hands-on animal health education, and be mentored by veterinary professionals who can guide their journey.
To make these events possible, we’re calling on veterinary professionals to join us as volunteers. You’ll have the chance to lead Pathway Vetlab stations, inspire students through mentorship, and share your own story of why this profession matters. If you’re ready to make an impact, we’d love to have you alongside us.
Vet Me Explain: Neurodiversity in Veterinary Medicine
Another way we’re building belonging is through our Vet Me Explain on-demand CE series. We just launched our new module, Neurodiversity in Veterinary Medicine: Embracing Minds That Work Differently, presented by Suzanne Thomas, BA, BS, LVT, CCFP, CVBL.
This session takes a closer look at neurodivergence—like ADHD and autism—through the lens of lived experience, education, and leadership. You’ll walk away with practical tools to support yourself, your team, and your clients by fostering inclusive leadership and communication practices.
VETtalks for Parents
Parents are often the earliest career influencers a child has. Research shows that children begin expressing career interests as early as elementary school, and those impressions matter. VETtalks is a free educational program designed to equip parents with the knowledge to nurture those budding interests—whether it’s understanding the different career paths in veterinary medicine, the education timeline, or how to encourage their child’s curiosity. These short, accessible on-demand programs are designed to spark meaningful conversations at home and help parents feel confident guiding their student’s dreams. Share with a parent whose child is interested in exploring a career in vet med.
What’s Coming Next: Vet Tech Week!
Stayed tuned on October 13, we’ll reveal how blendVET® is celebrating Vet Tech Week. We can’t wait to share what we have planned to honor the essential contributions of veterinary technicians across our profession.
Partner With Us
Creating belonging in veterinary medicine takes all of us. Whether you’re an industry leader, an educator, or a passionate ally, there’s a place for you at blendVET®. Together, we can expand access, empower students, and support professionals across our field. Learn more about partnering with blendVET as a sponsor, educator, or ally.
Thank you for being on this journey with us. Every program, every module, every pathway is part of a larger mission—to create belonging, opportunity, and a brighter future in veterinary medicine.
With gratitude,
Dr. Niccole Bruno
Founder & CEO, blendVET®
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