CVPM 2025 Slate of Officer & Director Nominees

Chair

Janine Kakoyannis Youngblood, MBA, CVPM (San Diego, CA)

Janine began her journey in the veterinary field as a receptionist and gradually expanded her skills by cross-training as a technician. Her passion for taking on impactful projects, such as streamlining inventory, improving compliance among lapsed patients, and identifying strategies to increase revenue, sparked her interest in management.

She earned a B.S. in Agribusiness Management from Cal Poly Pomona and stepped into her first practice management role in 2010. Since then, her leadership experience has spanned various settings, including General Practice, 24-hour ER/Specialty, a mobile practice, and a startup. Janine became a CVPM in 2016 and completed an MBA in 2023. She currently serves as a Senior Director of Regional Operations with Thrive Pet Healthcare in San Diego. 

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Janine is dedicated to supporting others in the field. She founded and organized the San Diego Veterinary Managers Group, a resource for local managers to enhance their professional development. Since 2019, she has served on the Certification Board as Director, Treasurer, and Co-Chair.

Co-Chair

Meghan Bingham, CVPM (Houston, TX)

More than 25 years ago, Meghan Bingham took a summer job at her neighborhood veterinary clinic—and never looked back. From Kennel Assistant to Technician to Receptionist, she worked up to Practice Manager, growing a single-doctor practice into a thriving 12-doctor hospital. Seeking an even broader impact, she became Senior Operations Manager, supporting 25 Emergency, Urgent Care, and General Practices in reaching their full potential.

Now, as a leader at Granite Peak Veterinary Advisors, Meghan gets to do what she loves most, helping veterinary professionals improve processes, optimize business strategies, and set practices up for long-term success.

Meghan earned her Certified Veterinary Practice Manager (CVPM) certification in 2017, was recognized as a VHMA Emerging Leader, and served two terms on the VHMA Board as Director. She is currently the President of the Houston Veterinary Practice Managers Alliance, demonstrating her dedication to supporting and mentoring veterinary managers at every level.

Secretary

KimberlyAnn Mackey, CVPM (Media, PA)

Kim Mackey is the founder and owner of Candid Approach Consulting, where she helps leaders build stronger teams through practical leadership, communication, and management strategies. Her work focuses on improving culture, resolving conflict, and promoting sustainable team success.

Kim is a Certified Veterinary Practice Manager (CVPM) with over 15 years of experience in the veterinary field, having advanced from receptionist to practice manager. She also brings 30 years of experience in the Criminal Justice field, retiring as a State Parole Supervisor after 22 years. This unique combination gives her a powerful edge in addressing challenges like de-escalation, team dynamics, and workplace safety.

An experienced educator, Kim has taught as an Adjunct Professor for over a decade and speaks regularly at veterinary clinics, conferences, and leadership groups. Since 2021, she has also served on the VHMA's Certification Board.

Kim's diverse background and straightforward, engaging style allow her to guide veterinary professionals toward impactful leadership and lasting team improvement.

Treasurer

Kim Mitchell, CVPM (Concord, NH)

Kim has been in the Veterinary field for over 20 years and has been a Certified Veterinary Practice Manager (CVPM) for eight years. She has been fortunate to work with many talented individuals as a Customer Service Representative (CSR), technician, assistant manager, practice manager, and now a regional director. She started from the ground up and created a strong base for her career. She has completed the two-year veterinary management program at Purdue University and has a bachelor's degree in business. She prides herself on being a strong, trusted leader and mentor. She can adapt to change, deal with conflict, and guide her teams through change management and difficult situations. She has been a member of the VHMA since 2011 and has served on the Certification Board as Director since 2023.

Director

Letitia Chandler Wiegand, CVPM (Austin, TX)

Leta joined Manchaca Village Veterinary Care in 2014 as a Technician Team Lead, where her leadership and dedication quickly set her apart. She transitioned to Practice Manager in 2016 and earned her Certified Veterinary Practice Manager (CVPM) certification in 2020. In 2024, Leta became Hospital Director and now coaches other veterinary hospitals, using emotional intelligence and team development to build strong, sustainable practices.

Leta holds a B.S. in Animal Science from West Texas A&M University and is passionate about blending high-quality medicine with an informed, personal client experience. A true team player, you can often find her stepping in to support any part of the hospital whenever needed.

Leta has been a member of the VHMA since 2019 and was appointed to serve on the Certification Board in 2024 as Director.

Director

Kristen Hart, CVPM (Pearland, TX)

With over two decades of experience in veterinary practice management, Kristen Hart brings a strong foundation in operational leadership, strategic development, and client-centered care. A Certified Veterinary Practice Manager (CVPM) since 2021, Kristen is passionate about elevating veterinary business standards through innovative solutions, staff empowerment, and sustainable growth.

As the Hospital Administrator at Pearland Animal Hospital, Kristen leads a team of 20+ professionals, overseeing all aspects of the practice's operations—including financial oversight, human resources, regulatory compliance, and client relations. Her leadership has driven the implementation of effective business systems, policy modernization, and training programs that enhance patient care and strengthen team culture.

Kristen's contributions have helped Pearland Animal Hospital earn multiple BBB Awards for Excellence in Caring (2017–2024), a testament to her commitment to integrity, service excellence, and organizational success. She remains dedicated to mentoring others in the profession and advocating for the advancement of veterinary management nationwide.

Director

Kyle McAllister, CVPM (Goose Creek, SC)

With over 15 years in the veterinary field, Kyle has progressed from a Client Service Representative to a Hospital Administrator. His career includes completing over 300 hours of certified education, leading teams, and transforming a struggling practice into a successful, vibrant hospital.

Compassion is the cornerstone of Kyle's work, whether in patient care, staff development, or client communication. He believes empathy and understanding are essential for exceptional service. Committed to fostering a supportive environment, Kyle mentors current and future leaders, promoting collaboration and growth.

His diverse background includes managing financial operations, streamlining budgets, optimizing inventory, and introducing new policies. With over 200 college credit hours across multiple disciplines, Kyle is a lifelong learner who adapts to challenges with innovation. He has shared insights at industry events and on the VHMA Manager-to-Manager Podcast, deepening his passion for helping others grow.

Kyle views success as a collective effort powered by shared knowledge and support. His philosophy fuels his enthusiasm for joining the VHMA Certification Board, where he aims to shape industry standards, champion professional development, and equip veterinary managers to thrive in a changing landscape.

Kyle has been a VHMA member since 2018 and was CVPM certified in 2020.

Director

Christine Merle, DVM, MBA, CVPM (Zionsville, IN)

Dr. Christine Merle is an independent animal health consultant, a Veterinary Management Group (VMG) facilitators group member, and an associate veterinarian in a privately owned veterinary practice. She graduated from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine in 1996 and earned an MBA in Marketing from DePaul University in 2000. Encouraged by Roger Cummings, she became acquainted with the VHMA and successfully passed the CVPM exam in 2003.

Throughout her career, Dr. Merle has embraced various roles, including academia, practice management consulting, international speaking engagements, and positions in the animal health industry. A lifelong learner, she is dedicated to acquiring knowledge and continuously improving her skills. Her diverse experiences have helped her develop a rich network across several aspects of the animal health industry.

As she advances in her career, Dr. Merle aims to contribute her expertise to associations and groups that have been instrumental to her success. She is particularly passionate about the VHMA and the CVPM program, recognizing their commitment to enhancing the veterinary profession by supporting practices and their teams.