Kelly Drescher Johnson (STH ’10) Named in Top 15 Women to Watch by The American Animal Hospital Association
This was originally published by The American Animal Hospital Association on March 29, 2023 and can be found here.
What guides you in your current work? 
No one chooses trauma, but what we do with it matters. I have had my share of traumatic events in life; part of my healing was to learn more about it, and then take that information to others. It is why I volunteer with Not One More Vet–Support Staff and assist my peers in navigating difficult situations, both professionally and personally. It’s also why I started Veterinary Chaplaincy Services, providing free support services to people who have lost a pet through consultations and online support groups. I hope to grow this service to provide more help to people and educate veterinary professionals with post-loss care of clients.
I love being a veterinary receptionist because I first really love people. It is absolutely vital for medical receptionists to love people. Working with the general public has its challenges, but I know clients come to the hospital because they are scared about their pet and need help. I have been in that position with my own pets, and how staff treated me left strong memories. I strive to let clients know they are held with care and compassion by the whole team with whatever they face with their pets. I hope by doing that, they are left with a strong sense of love that will affect their day for the better.