ALACHUA, FL – Laurie Auger never imagined a future in the veterinary field. After moving to a small Montana town with her husband, while also completing an online degree in early childhood education at the University of Montana Western, she took a part-time assistant job at Crazy Mountain Veterinary Service "just to get by." What began as a temporary role in 2015 quickly transformed into a career that captured her heart as she advanced from assistant to receptionist, office manager, and ultimately to practice manager, becoming an essential part of the rural mixed-animal practice.
In recognition of her leadership, impact, and dedication to professional growth, Auger is named the inaugural recipient of the Veterinary Hospital Managers Association (VHMA) Mark Opperman Scholarship Award. The scholarship honors VHMA founder Mark Opperman, CVPM, who spearheaded the Certified Veterinary Practice Manager (CVPM) credential and championed professional development for practice managers.
"As the first recipient of the Mark Opperman Scholarship Award, Laurie's dedication and resilience exemplify the qualities this scholarship was designed to recognize," said Christine Shupe, CAE, VHMA Executive Director. "Mark Opperman set the standard for professional excellence in veterinary management. This scholarship honors his enduring legacy and supports the next generation of practice managers who will carry his vision forward."
As this year's recipient, Auger receives a $695 cash award to help veterinary management professionals pursue the CVPM credential and advance her professional development.
How a Chance Job Helped Auger Discover Her Calling
"So much of this happened by accident," Auger said. "But I fell in love with this clinic, the people, and the work. Every time I was offered a promotion, I was eager to take on more."
Crazy Mountain Veterinary Service primarily cares for beef cattle herds, with off-site visits to farms that keep the team on the move, while also treating horses, dogs, cats, and occasionally goats or sheep. Last year, the clinic performed pregnancy checks on more than 70,000 cows, supported by six women veterinarians and a small, close-knit staff. Auger thrives in the variety, shifting from managing spreadsheets or inventory one day to front desk duties or pulling on muck boots to assist veterinarians in the field the next.
However, thriving in this fast-paced, hands-on environment also meant stepping into a leadership role without a formal veterinary background, which proved to be challenging.
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome Through Experience and Guidance
Initially, Auger questioned whether she truly belonged in a management role, facing self-doubt despite the trust placed in her by the team and practice owner.
"I felt like a kid playing dress-up at the grownups' table," she explained. "I was younger than most of the veterinarians I supervised, surrounded by these incredible professionals who had spent years in school. At times, it was extremely intimidating, but I never hesitated to ask questions, even when something was going over my head.”
Mentorship from her practice owner and each of the veterinarians helped her build confidence. By asking questions, seeking clarity, and pursuing opportunities to expand her knowledge– like enrolling in the veterinary management program at Penn Foster– she developed the skills and education needed to excel. She tackled the coursework during late-night study sessions after her children were asleep alongside her full-time role.
Advancing Her Career Through CVPM Credential
After learning about the Mark Opperman Scholarship, Auger knew it was the perfect opportunity not only to help offset the costs of her coursework and CVPM credential preparation, but also because the recognition was deeply meaningful to her. She's especially excited about the community and collaboration that certification and VHMA membership offer and has already begun building relationships with other practice managers, valuing the opportunity to share ideas with peers who truly understand the challenges of the role.
"I'm honored by this opportunity and to be named the first recipient of this scholarship. I'm so thankful for industry leaders like Mark Opperman, who paved the way for those before me and made this trail possible to follow," Auger said.
About the Mark Opperman Scholarship Award
The scholarship honors the legacy of VHMA founder Mark Opperman, who spearheaded the CVPM credential and championed professional development for veterinary managers. The VHMA Mark Opperman Scholarship Award provides an annual $695 cash award, equivalent to the CVPM program application fee, to support veterinary management professionals pursuing the CVPM credential. Applicants must be VHMA members in good standing, meet CVPM program requirements, and submit a 250-word essay on mentorship. The annual application deadline is September 1, and more information is available on the VHMA website.
About the VHMA
The VHMA, a nationally recognized thought leader, provides training, education, and resources to over 5,000 members. Its certification programs support veterinary practice management professionals by developing competence and encouraging standards. VHMA serves as a trusted resource for industry insights and advocacy, helping to shape the future of the veterinary profession. For more information, visit www.VHMA.org.