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Milestones are instrumental in reminding us where we came from and where we are going! As I begin my term as VHMA President, I am reminded of where this journey started and where we plan to be. I am very excited about VHMA’s future but realize the journey takes time. We all must get through today, tomorrow, this week, and next week. The most notable journeys come with ups, downs, and unexpected paths. That is just the way it goes.

VHMA is a guidepost for most of us on our paths as managers in veterinary medicine…a place where you can develop your skills and knowledge for your professional successes and find the mental and emotional support needed to make that journey a bit smoother. A place where you feel included, supported, and challenged. As managers, our job is to support our team members. Sometimes, we are the ones in need of a support team. That’s where VHMA comes in.

VHMA is a place…a place to go for answers to the tough questions, where you feel heard and understood. 

VHMA is a people…as we explore our places in our hospitals, Industry, and VHMA, I think it is essential that we think about how we are connected. I have heard the term “My People” at VHMA meetings, and the two identities are intertwined. VHMA has become a place where you are accepted for who you are, and no matter your background or experience level, you have a safe place to be yourself—a place where everyone belongs. 

Over my years as a member of VHMA and even as a board member, I have called on some of the most remarkable people in our field to help me deal with issues and celebrate triumphs. I cannot thank each of them enough for their support and encouragement. We are much more successful within our hospitals because of the strong VHMA community we have formed outside of them. 

I look forward to sharing some ideas along our journey– mine and VHMA’s. I intend to share things that make my journey special and even challenging. I look forward to connecting with our members and learning about how VHMA and its members have impacted your professional journey.

Sincerely,

Scott Zimmerman, BFA, CVPM
VHMA President