What started as an associate DVM position at an NVA clinic right after graduation became the foundation for a leadership journey that would see her go from new graduate to Medical Director at Alta Mesa Animal Hospital—all within eight years.

Here's more about how she navigated her path to leadership.

1. Tell us about your career journey.

I started as an associate DVM at Arizona Avenue Animal Clinic when I first graduated from Iowa State University in 2017. My medical director and hospital manager knew early on that I wanted to one day own a practice. So at about three to four years in, they started planting the seed about me moving into a medical director position. It wasn't open at the clinic I was already at, but NVA gave me options to move into that role and grow as a Medical Director. I've been doing that for about three years now at Alta Mesa Animal Hospital, and it's been an incredible experience.

2. How has NVA supported your growth and development?

The resources NVA provides are invaluable—whether it's recruiting support for doctors and staff, wellness plans that help clients afford preventive care, or equipment upgrades. When I first got to my current clinic, we didn't have a functioning ultrasound. Being able to get quality equipment has been huge. I've actually done ultrasound training and will be starting to offer that service in the next few months.

3. How does NVA empower you as a clinician?

I don't have to worry about them meddling in my medicine. They're not going to tell me how to work up a case or require me to use certain products. On a daily basis, I get to choose what type of bloodwork I'm running and what medications I'm using based on what is best for my patient. Feeling like I have a voice has been the biggest benefit.

4. What NVA program or resource has made the biggest impact on your team?

When NVA launched their mentorship program, it was a game-changer. They didn't have it when I first started, but having that for my new grads has been incredibly helpful. They have an extra person to reach out to on busy days when I'm not available, and they have a whole group of peers going through the same experiences.

5. How does NVA help you create the team environment you want?

One of the biggest challenges in veterinary medicine is staffing and keeping good staff. The benefit of being with NVA is that I get to pick and choose who I work with. I've been able to build a team that shares our values and commitment to quality medicine and compassionate care for our patients. We all have the same goals. You really do feel like you have a community within NVA—there are plenty of people to reach out to for help and support.

More about Dr. Lanier:

Dr. Jade Lanier attended South Dakota State University, graduating in 2011 with her Bachelor's degree and in 2012 with her Master's degree. She graduated from Iowa State University in 2017 with her Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine. She moved to Arizona right after graduation to enjoy the warmer weather and lives in Gilbert with her three fur children: a Husky named Renly, a pitbull named Jetta, and a domestic shorthair named Saki. In her free time, she enjoys running, playing kickball, reading, and exploring Phoenix. Her philosophy is to constantly learn and advance medicine while mentoring the next generation of veterinarians and creating a healthy, positive culture at Alta Mesa Animal Hospital.