DVM
President
Dr. Melanie Gerard graduated with honors from Ohio State University’s veterinary college in 2001. After working in private practice, academia, and shelter medicine, she founded Mission Animal Hospital in Minneapolis in 2012—Minnesota’s only charitable non-profit veterinary hospital. She moved to the Pacific Northwest in 2015, joining her husband, Dr. Don Gerard, in their shared mission to provide high-quality, affordable veterinary care. Together, they also volunteer for spay/neuter efforts in Mexico.
Secretary
Virginia is a marketing and public relations professional with over 25 years of experience building creative campaigns and special events. At BluePearl Veterinary Partners, she oversaw a brand transition driving significant growth over four consecutive years. Her portfolio includes notable projects for organizations like Seattle Theatre Group, the Sundance Film Festival, and Pearl Jam. Now as marketing director for Veterinary Roots and the Rainier Animal Fund, she works to positively impact the lives of pets and their owners.
DVM, PhD
Treasurer
Originally from southwestern Idaho, Bryan Slinker received his DVM (1980) and PhD (1982) from Washington State University, then pursued post-doctoral studies at U.C. San Francisco Medical School. He began his faculty career at the University of Vermont Medical School in 1986 before returning to WSU in 1992. His career spanned teaching, biomedical research, and academic administration, including nine years as department chair and ten years as dean. He retired in 2019 and resides in Pullman with his wife Kathy.
DVM
WSVMA Board Liaison
Katie Kuehl is a veterinarian and assistant professor at Washington State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. She directs the WSU Shelter Medicine program at Seattle Humane, guiding veterinary students through hands-on training in shelter medicine, surgery, and community outreach. She also leads the One Health Clinic veterinary team, a partnership with the University of Washington providing integrated care to people and their pets. She serves as President of the Washington State Animal Health Foundation Board of Trustees.
DVM
2023/24 Past President of WSVMA
Edward Dana Haigh, B.S., D.V.M.: Born and raised in Shelton, WA. The son of two Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine Graduates. Bachelor of Science Zoology major, University of Washington 2005. Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University 2010. Edward’s focus is small animal and aquaculture. Member of WSVMA, AVMA and American Association of Fish Veterinarians. Represented the WSVMA as the emerging leader in 2011. Served as Chair of the Pacific Northwest Veterinary Conference for 5 years.
RVT
Director
Kelli Thompson graduated from Pierce College in Lakewood, WA, with her associate degree in veterinary technology in 2012. She has dedicated her career to small animal general practice, and as lead veterinary technician has trained and mentored countless technicians and assistants, emphasizing the value their skills bring to the profession. Kelli is passionate about patient advocacy, client education, and supporting colleagues. She also completed the Copyediting Certificate Program through UC San Diego in 2024.
DVM
Director
Dr. Radha Ganesan is a New York native who moved to Washington after veterinary school. She worked for the Wenatchee Valley Humane Society before becoming Lead Veterinarian at the Northwest Spay and Neuter Center in Tacoma. She stepped down to focus on increasing access to care in underserved areas. Her passion is high-quality, high-volume spay/neuter and shelter medicine. She currently coordinates spay/neuter clinics with nonprofit organizations in underserved communities across Washington.
DVM
Director
Here’s the shortened version (~75 words):
Dr. Andrea Sanchez-Chambers graduated from Oregon State University’s Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine in 2007 and has spent her career at Banfield Pet Hospital in roles including chief-of-staff, medical director, and senior manager. Through the Mars Ambassador Program, she has led veterinary service trips to underserved communities in Puerto Rico and Louisiana. She previously served as President of Portland Animal Welfare Team and Chair of the Washington Veterinary Board of Governors, and is passionate about preventive care and public education.
