| Kathy came to the WSVMA with a varied background. She was in the military before becoming interested in becoming a veterinarian during the years 1975 to 1980. Her assignments included that of a Battalion Communication Officer, Special Projects Officer, Platoon Leader and Assistant Adjutant. After that, she worked with the Department of Social and Health Services as a counselor and Public Relations Officer. Her early education included a B.A. from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, a master’s in social science and human relations from Pacific Lutheran University, and finally her DVM from Washington State University in 1991. After graduating from WSU, Kathy worked as an associate veterinarian at the Lacy Animal Clinic for four years and then became the assistant state veterinarian in 1995. Her early training and work experience honed her skills for becoming the president of the association. Her experience in the social sciences, human relations and the fine arts, as well as her involvement at the local and state levels enabled her to be an effective leader during her term of office. One of Dr. Connell’s goals was to improve the coordination with the student veterinary association and faculty at WSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine. She also fostered relationships with the state legislators and stressed the involvement of practicing veterinarians. With her many contacts on the state and federal level, as well as in biomedical research, she sought and was successful in bringing new ideas into the WSVMA. On of Kathy’s great attributes was to keep the meetings lively and interesting. She had the ability to conduct serious business while keeping the board laughing at her remarks. A rare ability in any leader. |
