The AVMA Convention 2024, happening from June 21-25 in Austin, Texas, promises to be a cornerstone event for veterinary professionals. This year’s convention will focus heavily on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), offering numerous opportunities for attendees to network, gain knowledge, and celebrate the vibrant diversity within the veterinary community.
Kickoff Events
The convention starts with Food Festival Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on June 21. This event celebrates Juneteenth, commemorating the end of slavery in the U.S. and first recognized by Texas. Attendees will enjoy a variety of Texas cuisine and live performances from local African-American musicians, including soul artist Aaron Stephens.
On June 22, the popular Live Life, Love All event returns to Austin’s historic Sixth Street from 7-9 p.m. at Bull & Bowl. This DEI celebration features duckpin bowling, karaoke, arcade games, and a silent disco with live DJs. This event follows the Technician Appreciation and Young Professionals events from 6-7:30 p.m. at the same venue.
Sunday’s DEI-Focused Programming
Sunday, June 23, is packed with DEI-centric sessions:
- PrideVMC Town Hall: “Where Are We Now? Meeting Current Challenges Facing the LGBTQ+ Veterinary Community” at 9 a.m. in room 14 at the Austin Convention Center. Drs. Ewan D. Wolff, Dane M. Whitaker, and Mia S. Cary will lead this session.
- Center Stage Interviews and Panels:
- At 10:30 a.m., Dr. Latonia Craig interviews Dr. Ruby Perry, recipient of the Frederick Douglass Patterson Award.
- At 11 a.m., the DVMC presents “Diversifying Veterinary Medicine: A Celebration of Rising Leaders.”
- At 2 p.m., the “DEI Legends” panel discussion led by Patricia Lowrie features distinguished veterinary leaders.
- At 2:30 p.m., the second Unsung Heroes awards will honor six veterinary team members from Texas.
Educational Opportunities
Continuing Education (CE) Sessions: The convention offers numerous DEI-related CE sessions. Highlights include:
- Journey for Teams Presentations:
- “A Roadmap for Improved Workplace Culture and Team Engagement” by Dr. Marci Kirk at 9 a.m. on June 21.
- “Brave Spaces” by Dr. Mia S. Cary at 10 a.m. on June 23.
- “Embracing Gender Diversity” by Dr. Ewan D. Wolff at 4 p.m. on June 23.
- “Allyship” by Lisa Greenhill, EdD, at 8 a.m. on June 24.
- “Psychological Safety” by Jen Brandt, PhD, at 9 a.m. on June 24.
- “The Art of Retention” by Dr. Kemba L. Marshall at 10 a.m. on June 24.
- Additional DEI CE Sessions:
- “Addressing Imposter Syndrome and Second-Generation Gender Bias” by Dr. Donna Matthews Jarrell at 3 p.m. on June 22.
- “Myth Busting Gender Differences in Job Searches” by Drs. Christina V. Tran and Stacy L. Pritt at 3 p.m. on June 22.
- “Intentionally Creating an Inclusive Learning Culture” by Dr. Tran and Melody Martinez at 9 a.m. on June 23.
- “Culturally Responsive End of Life Care” by Dr. Marie S. Quicksall at 10 a.m. on June 23.
- “The Myth of the Model Minority” by Drs. Katherine Fogelberg, Jean Yin Tan, and Christina V. Tran at 2 p.m. on June 23.
- “Microaggressions and Their Impact on Health and Wellbeing” by Dr. Quicksall and Martinez at 4 p.m. on June 23.
- “Creating the Future of Veterinary Medicine Through Diversification of Practice Ownership” by Dr. Gerelyn A. Henry at 2 p.m. on June 24.
- “Neurodiversity in a Neurotypical Veterinary World” by Dr. Laurie McCauley at 4 p.m. on June 24.
Engaging Future Veterinarians
On June 24, high school students interested in veterinary careers can participate in the Vet for a Day clinic hosted by Drs. Terrence Ferguson and Vernard Hodges of Nat Geo Wild’s “Critter Fixers.” This immersive program offers hands-on demonstrations and insights into veterinary medicine.
Conclusion
The AVMA Convention 2024 is set to be an enriching experience, highlighting the importance of DEI within the veterinary profession. Attendees will have ample opportunities to engage in meaningful discussions, attend educational sessions, and celebrate the diverse community that makes up the veterinary field. Join us in Austin to be a part of this transformative event!
