Thank you for your interest in becoming a member of the Board of Directors for the WSVMA. The Association is always in need of resourceful, energetic individuals who are excited about and willing to commit to serving our mission to advocate for veterinarians and veterinary medicine.

The WSVMA is governed by a Board of Directors whose members are responsible for setting association policy consistent with existing mandates and policies, planning the direction of the Association, conducting the business of the Association, establishing the Association's standing rules, adopting the budget, and evaluating Association activities.

The Board of Directors consists of ten (10) voting members including President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer and six (6) directors. In addition, the Chief Executive Officer serves as a non-voting member. In 2025 the Board will be aiming to elect/reelect three general members and one representation/diversity member.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI): In addition to the intent to be governed by a diverse Board of Directors in terms of practice type, species, geographic location, employment setting, etc., the WSVMA strives to be governed by a diverse team in terms of race, ethnicity, age, gender, sexual orientation, disability, and other dimensions that enhance the leadership of the organization. In 2024 the Board of WSVMA created three new Board positions referred to as Representation/Diversity Directors. Each year the Board reviews how its current Board makeup compares to both the Vet Med and the broader communities in WA. These positions are then used to ensure that the Board’s overall makeup better reflects these communities.

Eligibility requirements: Candidates for the Board must be current Active WSVMA members. Qualifications we look for in a potential board member include the ability to think strategically and analytically, possess effective communication skills and carry a sense of vision for the needs of the veterinary profession. Flexibility, open-mindedness and a collaborative spirit are also important when serving on the Board. One of the three Representation/Diversity positions will be elected/reelected this year. As noted, the Board assesses its Representation/Diversity needs each year and based on this assessment applicants for this position should be female, in the early stage of their career, a person of color, and work with small animals/companion animals.

Election: In accordance with WSVMA Bylaws, Board directors are elected by eligible WSVMA voting members and may serve up to two three-year terms. Elections are held in August and September with terms commencing in September. The Board elects officers at their first meeting following the election.

Meeting Calendar: Board meeting attendance is required. The Board generally meets in person three times per year around the state (Pullman, Olympia and Tacoma), and mainly conducts business by attending monthly electronic meetings in the evenings. Directors also serve as liaisons on standing committees or task forces and may be elected to serve as WSVMA officers. Directors also attend and participate in the Pacific Northwest Veterinary Conference.