FVTE Spotlight: Jennelle Miller
To be named a "Fellow of the Association (or Academy)" follows a long tradition of professional (especially medical) associations recognizing the whole work of an individual's career, not just a single test or program. Tara Groves is the current chair of the AVTE Fellows committee so reach out if you have any questions and learn more about the AVTE Fellows program.
@Jennelle Miller
What inspired you to pursue a career in veterinary medicine? How did your path evolve — and what experiences or challenges shaped who you are today?
My inspiration to pursue a career in veterinary medicine stemmed from my love for animals, my personal experiences growing up with pets, my interest in science and medicine, and my desire to both help animals and educate the people who care for them. My journey in veterinary medicine began in high school when I enrolled in veterinary assisting classes. From there, I worked in a variety of roles within veterinary hospitals, progressing from a kennel technician to a certified veterinary technician. Over time, my passion for education and mentorship grew, eventually leading me to expand my career as an adjunct professor teaching veterinary technician courses at St. Petersburg College and Pima Medical Institute. In addition to teaching, I am involved in credentialing members with the Florida Veterinary Technician Association and participate in outreach efforts through the Pinellas Animal Foundation, where I help educate youth about pet safety and responsible animal care. As my experience in the field continues to grow, I have also been working to become more involved with professional associations and committees in order to make a broader impact within the veterinary profession.
What led you to focus on education, leadership, or mentorship within the profession?
One of my favorite aspects of working in the veterinary clinic was being in the exam rooms because I enjoyed educating pet owners. I found that I had a great deal of patience and rarely became frustrated by the questions clients would ask. Helping them understand their pets care and feel more confident in the decisions they were making was incredibly rewarding. I also discovered a passion for mentoring students who came through the clinic. I enjoyed helping them work through their skills lists, build confidence, and move closer to achieving their goals in the veterinary field. As I reflected on this strength in patience and mentorship, I realized I wanted to continue developing it in a more intentional way. This led me to taking a Veterinary Workplace Wellbeing course that had us create impact plans. My impact plan for St. Petersburg College is called "We Can Get Through This Together." The program fosters supportive relationships between different student cohorts. As the mentor, I oversee the program, I listen to students concerns, guide them through challenges, and help them celebrate their accomplishments along the way.
What motivated you to become a Fellow of Veterinary Technician Education (FVTE)? How has being part of the FVTE community allowed you to make a difference?
When I first noticed that some of my leaders had the FVTE acronym in their email signatures and heard them discussing it at the AVTE conference in Louisville, KY, it inspired me to look more deeply into what it meant. At first, I didn't think I would qualify, but as I reflected on the experiences and accomplishments I had built over the years, I realized this was a goal that was truly within reach. Becoming part of this community has broadened my perspective and allowed me to be part of something bigger than myself. Through this experience, I've had the opportunity to join the Fellows committee, contribute my input on conference proposals, and help shape criteria for a new and upcoming opportunity for educational leaders. Being involved in these initiatives has been incredibly meaningful and has reinforced my commitment to supporting growth and leadership within the veterinary profession.
What does this recognition mean to you, personally and professionally?
This FVTE recognition is incredibly meaningful to me because it reflects not only my own efforts, but also the support and mentorship I received throughout my career. Personally, it's an honor to be recognized among professionals who are passionate about advancing the veterinary field. Professionally, it reinforces my commitment to educational leadership, student mentorship, and educational innovation within the field of veterinary medicine.
What part of your work brings you the most joy or fulfillment? Is there a project, initiative, or teaching moment you’re especially proud of?
The moments that bring me the most joy are often the small ones‚ When a student who was shy starts to come out of their shell, when a difficult topic starts to make sense, or when a student has that aha moment after learning a new skill. Those experiences remind me why I chose this profession and why continuing to grow within it is so important to me.
What advice would you give to others in the veterinary field — especially those just starting out?
“I became an FVTE because…”
My advice to those just starting out in veterinary medicine is to stay curious, ask questions, and give yourself grace while you learn. No one knows everything at the beginning, and every case is an opportunity to grow. Surround yourself with supportive mentors, advocate for your wellbeing, and remember that teamwork is one of the most important parts of this profession. Nothing is out of your reach, you can achieve anything you put your mind to, so do not be scared to put yourself out there and reach for the stars! I became an FVTE because I want to make a difference in this field, I want to bring in more positivity, and I believe that starts in the classroom.
What do you believe the veterinary community needs more of (or less of) right now?
“My hope for the veterinary profession is…”
My hope for the veterinary profession is that the profession remains one where people can sustain a long, fulfilling career with better mental health while making a meaningful difference in the lives of animals and their owners.
If you could share one message with the profession, what would it be?
“If I could remind every veterinary professional of one thing, it would be…”
If I could remind every veterinary professional of one thing, it would be that even the smallest steps in the right direction can make a big impact, so speak up and do what is right for you, the animals, the community, and the profession.
#FVTE