Dr. Wedam is a graduate of Washington State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and since then has been a member of the Yakima Valley community. She started working as a veterinarian at the Prosser Animal Clinic and soon became a co-owner. She helped establish two small animal emergency hospitals in the Tri-Cities and Yakima and has been co-owner of three other veterinary related businesses in the community. Since 1987 Dr. Wedam has also been a program director and tenured professor that the Yakima Valley College.
In just over a decade, WSU CVM has transformed veterinary education by improving how students learn communication, teamwork, and leadership. Over 1,200 veterinarians now provide better care through empathy and tailored recommendations, resulting in fewer complaints and greater public trust. Key to this progress are simulated client encounters and clinical experiences like administering anesthesia and performing CPR.
This success wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of Daniel Haley, MFA, and his troupe of simulated clients. As coordinator, Daniel brings his theater expertise to recruit, train, and guide 35-45 individuals who help students develop essential skills. His use of medical improvisation enhances students’ confidence and presence in clinical situations, making a lasting impact on their education.
Dr. Dana Morganroth was nominated for the Outstanding Veterinary Service Award due to the exceptional reviews from colleagues and clients during her work as a relief vet in the Seattle Metro area. Her outstanding skills, positive attitude, and dedication have made her a highly trusted and admired professional among her peers.
Described as efficient, proactive, and self-sufficient, Dr. Morganroth consistently goes above and beyond in her work, establishing positive relationships with staff and clients alike. Her thorough client education and fantastic attitude foster trust and confidence, earning her immense respect from both colleagues and pet owners.
The 2024 Washington State University Faculty Award was presented to the Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (WADDL) team, including the Avian Health Food Safety Laboratory (AHFSL) in Puyallup. Often overlooked, AHFSL plays a crucial role in providing timely diagnostic results for Washington’s veterinary community, especially during urgent disease outbreaks.
During the recent Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza outbreak, the WADDL/AHFSL team worked overnight to deliver test results by the next morning. As part of the National Animal Health Laboratory Network, their quick response supports critical disease mitigation. Congratulations to WADDL Executive Director Dr. Kevin Snekvik and his team, with Dr. Liam Broughton accepting the award.
The ripple effects of Lethea Russell, LVT’s work as the coordinator for the Clinical Simulation Center (CSC) on patient and client care throughout the Pacific Northwest are hard to overstate. Lethea’s first chapter in her veterinary technician career was as a talented and devoted equine surgery technician for two decades. She then pivoted to take on a new challenge and over the last ten years has helped put WSU College of Veterinary Medicine on the map for its work in Simulation-Based Education (SBE). Lethea’s ingenuity and devotion to preparing new graduates for success in practice has positively impacted over 1200 veterinarians. Lethea is a critical part of a trailblazing eort to enhance veterinary medical education.
The team includes:
Ashley Taulbee, Chief Philanthropy Officer,
Lindsey Haney, Director of Communications and Outreach,
Chloe Dubois, Director of Development,
Stefanie Cornell, Digital Marketing Manager,
Megan Tackett, Development Coordinator,
Lauren Green, Marketing Coordinator,
Sarah Jane Hoppe, Capital Campaign Manager, and
Shelby Kock Wah Ng, Donor Relations Manager.
Omni Practice Group is a trusted industry partner of the Washington State Veterinary Medical Association (WSVMA), known for educating veterinarians on the complexities of buying or selling veterinary practices. Through seminars and speaking engagements, they help veterinarians navigate these challenges, with Rod Johnston actively contributing at events like the Pacific Northwest Veterinary Conference.
In addition to supporting the veterinary community, Rod gives back locally through the Eastside Basket Brigade, an organization he founded in 2012 to provide Thanksgiving meals to hundreds of families. Each year, Omni donates over $3,000 in gift cards and more than 200 turkeys. Rod’s dedication to both his profession and community makes Omni Practice Group a success.
Washington State
Veterinary Medical Association
23515 NE Novelty Hill Rd.
STE B221-337
Redmond, WA 98053
Toll Free: (800) 399-7862
Phone: (425) 396-3191
Fax: (425) 396-3192
Ⓒ 2025 Washington State Veterinary Medical Association
