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On Sept. 26, 2019, Debbie Hill, CVPM, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, CCFP, was presented with the Veterinary Hospital Managers Association’s (VHMA) prestigious President’s Award. Hill was honored at the association’s 2019 Annual Meeting and Conference in Glendale, Arizona.

About the award                                                                                                                            

The President’s Award celebrates VHMA members who have effected positive change and enhanced the standing of the association. Since 1993, 13 of VHMA’s most dedicated, inventive, and supportive members have been recognized. Honorees are selected by the association’s president, in consultation with the Board of Directors. The award continues to be the standard-bearer for celebrating excellence, inventiveness, and collegiality among members. Outgoing President Jim Nash presented Hill with the award, describing Hill as a colleague, friend, advisor and a consummate professional.

 A well-respected leader in the field

The highlight of the award presentation was a moving video that contained tributes from Hill’s VHMA colleagues. Many of those providing testimonials pointed to her deep understanding of management issues, effortless sense of humor, unique ability to be a friend and mentor to managers, and commitment to ensuring that all VHMA members feel welcome and supported.

VHMA Executive Director Christine Shupe, CAE, participated in the filming of the award video and said, “Debbie has had such a profound influence on so many of our members. It was heartwarming to see the feelings of respect and friendship she engendered among her colleagues. She is always available to those who seek her counsel, kindness, and company.”

About Debbie Hill

Hill joined the VHMA 22 years ago when she took a job with a veterinary clinic, and her boss gave her a long ‘to do’ list. Joining the VHMA was one of the items on the list. Hill joined without question and counted it among one of her best decisions. She received the VHMA’s Certified Veterinary Practice Manager (CVPM) credential in 2005.

Hill is the hospital administrator for a veterinarian with four veterinary hospitals in Florida. When she entered the industry in 1989, she worked at the front desk of a one doctor practice in Denver. Over the past two decades, she has worked with nine hospitals in three states. She is also an instructor for Patterson Veterinary University and a sought-after speaker at veterinary conferences and webinars, often speaking on human resources and financial topics.

Hill has a strong desire to help other managers achieve their career goals and speaks to local manager groups around the country. She served on the VHMA Board of Directors for six years and as the VHMA liaison to the CVPM Board. She also served as the Chair on the CVPM Board.

Upon receiving the award, Hill said, “I am honored. The relationships built in this association extend beyond being a great work resource. These are the people I call---and who have called me---for professional insights and friendly conversations. These are my people! To think that I have been able to give back even just a bit of what the association has given to me is humbling.”