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As we wrap up another academic year, I want to take a moment to celebrate all the progress we’ve made as veterinary students. Whether you’ve just completed your first year or are preparing to enter the profession, you should be proud of everything you’ve accomplished. This path is far from easy, but the determination and commitment shown by our community continue to be a source of inspiration.
To the Class of 2025, congratulations on reaching this important milestone! Your journey into the veterinary profession is just beginning, and I know you’ll bring compassion and knowledge, to every animal and client you will care for. The future of veterinary medicine is bright with you in it.
Serving as SCVMA President over the past year has been a truly rewarding experience. It’s been a privilege to connect with students across Canada, to hear your stories, and to work together in amplifying the student voice within our national association. Throughout the 2024-2025 academic year, the SCVMA hosted meaningful events, from welcoming first-years during our Meet and Greet, to the Hot Topic and One Voice presentations, and of course, the annual SCVMA Symposium held in Saskatoon, SK.
This year would not have been possible without the dedication and energy of my fellow representatives. I’m especially grateful to our senior team: Paisley Johnson (WCVM), Samantha Shute (AVC), Bryn Van Winters (OVC), and Matthew Tornopolski (UCVM), and to our junior reps: Shelby Jennings (UCVM), Kasey Keohane (WCVM), Sara Puligandla (FMV) and Katelyn Visser (AVC), and. A heartfelt thank you also goes to Janie Racette, whose steady support and guidance have been invaluable. We often refer to Janie as our “SCVMA mom,” but after working closely with her for the past two years, I can sincerely say she is both a trusted mentor and a dear friend.
I’m thrilled to be passing the torch to Kasey Keohane (WCVM), who will serve as SCVMA President for 2025-2026. Kasey’s leadership and dedication during this year’s symposium were exceptional, and I’m confident she will bring fresh ideas and passion to the role. I truly hope you enjoy the experience as much as I did.
This role also gave me the opportunity to represent students on the CVMA Council and to witness firsthand how deeply the association values and listens to its student members. I’ve met so many inspiring individuals, who remind me why I chose this profession in the first place. A special thank you to my mentor and Quebec representative, Dr. Jordyn Hewer, for your guidance and for making me feel welcome and supported from the very beginning. You have truly made this experience even more meaningful.
Congratulations to Dr. Timothy Arthur on a strong and impactful year as CVMA President. Your steady leadership through complex national challenges has been truly commendable. I’m also looking forward to seeing all that Dr. Tracy Fisher will accomplish as she takes on the presidency next year. Her dedication and insight are sure to strengthen the association’s ongoing efforts. And finally, a heartfelt thank you to Joel Neuheimer, CVMA CEO, for your infectious energy, sharp wit, and genuine openness. Your presence brings warmth and momentum to every room, and it’s reassuring to know the CVMA is guided by such capable hands.
As we look ahead, I encourage you to stay connected with the CVMA, explore the many resources available to you, and consider getting involved. You never know how impactful the experience might be.
Wishing you all a restful summer and a fulfilling year to come,
Mia Edger-Lacoursière
SCVMA President, 2024–2025
Faculté de Médecine vétérinaire de l’Université de Montréal, Class of 2026