Blinn College's Veterinary Technology Program named AVTE Program of the Year

Association of Veterinary Technician Educators recognizes Blinn for its collaboration, creativity, and commitment to student success

August 28, 2024

The Blinn College District Veterinary Technology Program has been awarded the prestigious Program of the Year Award by the Association of Veterinary Technician Educators (AVTE).

Blinn was selected from among 220 programs across the nation, underscoring the importance of teamwork and innovative learning opportunities in the educational and clinical environments. The announcement was made at the 2024 ATVE Annual Conference in Houston.

Program faculty and staff include:

• Jessica Garza, LVT – Program Director
• Heather Kennedy, LVT – Clinical Coordinator
• Angela Culp, LVT – Full-Time Instructor
• Mandy Zachgo, LVT – Part-Time Instructor
• Lauren Brady, DVM – Part-Time Instructor
• Jim Hurrell, DVM – Part-Time Instructor
• Valerie Daugherty, LVT – Part-Time Instructor
• Daphne Newchurch – Administrative Assistant

“The Blinn College Veterinary Technology Program encompasses instructors who are dedicated to students’ growth and success,” Garza said. “I am proud to be part of this program and I know we will continue to strive to enhance the veterinary profession and prepare students for their journey in the field.”

To be eligible for the AVTE Program of the Year Award, programs must be affiliated with an AVMA/CVMA-accredited veterinary technology program, have at least one member in good standing with the AVTE, and include two or more educators. Key considerations for the award include effective collaboration, creativity in educational development, positive impact on student success, supportive learning environments, promotion of the veterinary health care team concept, and the development of a professional image for veterinary technicians.

Blinn was recognized in particular for its clinical externships with Texas A&M’s Small and Large Animal Hospitals. Blinn is the only community college that has an agreement to complete laboratories and clinicals at Texas A&M’s Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, giving students hands-on training in every aspect of the wide-ranging field.

AVTE also recognized Blinn’s hybrid program that allows full-time technicians to pursue licensure. Through this unique program, lectures are conducted online while laboratories are held once or twice per month in person.

Blinn’s Associate of Applied Science Degree in Veterinary Technology is one of only 11 accredited programs in Texas. It prepares students to become fully credentialed licensed veterinary technicians qualified to work in veterinary clinics, animal shelters, educational institutions, government agencies, laboratories, and research facilities.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for veterinary technicians was $43,740 in 2023. Between 2022 and 2032, the demand for veterinary technicians is expected to grow 21%, creating an additional 25,200 jobs nationwide.

For more information regarding the program, visit www.blinn.edu/veterinary-technology.