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PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE: Connected by purpose and together we shape the future of our profession
September 14, 2026
My name is Kathleen MacMillan, and I am honored to serve as the 78th President of the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA). I am an equine veterinarian and Associate Professor at the Atlantic Veterinary College (AVC) at the University of Prince Edward Island.
Over the past 25 years, I have had the privilege of working in a variety of roles within our profession — as an associate veterinarian, a solo ambulatory practice owner, and, for the past 15 y, as an educator and researcher. Looking back, it is remarkable how quickly those 25 y have passed! Veterinary medicine has provided me with a deeply rewarding career, one that has shaped not only what I do, but ultimately who I am.
My journey with the CVMA began in 2015 when one of my mentors, Dr. Jeanne Lofstedt, encouraged me to apply for the role of Local Chair for the 2017 CVMA Convention in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island (PEI). At the time, I was uncertain whether I really had anything to contribute but she assured me that I did, plus it would count as scholarly activity for my application for tenure. I could never have imagined that 11 y later I would have the privilege to serve as President of the CVMA and how profoundly that decision in 2015 would influence my career. Thank you Jeanne for starting me on this incredible journey. It is noteworthy that Jeanne was CVMA President in 2002–2003 and only the 2nd female president in CVMA history. Furthermore, I am the 11th female president, the 8th president from PEI and the 4th from AVC. The entire CVMA Executive Council for 2026–27 is comprised of strong leaders within the veterinary profession, all of whom just happen to be female.
Shortly after becoming the local chair, I was given the opportunity by Dean Greg Keefe to serve as an interim representative for the AVC and Faculté de médecine vétérinaire (FMV) on CVMA Council. Attending my first Council meeting, I felt very much like an imposter among experienced leaders. Fortunately, several Council members welcomed me with kindness, encouragement, and support. Their willingness to mentor and guide me reinforced that small acts of generosity can have lasting impacts.
Throughout our careers, we may never fully appreciate the influence we have on others. A few words of encouragement, a willingness to listen, or an offer of support can help someone find the confidence to pursue opportunities they may not otherwise have considered. I am profoundly grateful to all the mentors and colleagues who believed in me and helped shape my path within the CVMA, as well as in my veterinary career.
Volunteering with the CVMA over the past decade has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my professional life. It has provided me with numerous opportunities to learn, to collaborate, and to work alongside dedicated individuals who care deeply about the future of veterinary medicine in Canada and internationally. I have been continually inspired by the expertise, commitment, and generosity of our members.
Over the coming year, I look forward to connecting with members across the country, hearing your perspectives, learning from your experiences, and representing you on national and international stages. I am excited for the opportunities ahead and confident in what we can accomplish together. By supporting one another, embracing innovation, and remaining focused on the values that unite us, we can continue to strengthen our profession and its impact and accomplish much more than we could as individuals.
Although our careers may take us in various directions, as veterinary professionals, we remain connected. The strength of the CVMA has always been its members. Every committee volunteer, mentor, student, practitioner, specialist, academic, industry veterinarian, and retired member contributes to the Association. The CVMA supports its members through advocacy, continuing education, mentorship, wellness initiatives, professional resources, and opportunities to connect with colleagues across the country. However, membership is about more than the benefits it provides; it is about investing in our profession and helping to ensure that veterinary medicine in Canada thrives.
As I begin my term as President, I am mindful of both the opportunities and challenges facing our profession. Veterinary medicine continues to evolve, and our members work in increasingly diverse roles. Together, our collective voice is stronger, our expertise is broader, and our impact is greater. We are one profession, united by a shared commitment to animal health and welfare, public health, and the people and communities we serve. We are one profession, speaking with one strong voice. Together, let's make our voice heard and impact felt.
– Kathleen MacMillan
