The North Carolina Veterinary Medical Association (NCVMA) recognized four veterinarians for their exemplary contributions to the profession during its annual Summer Conference, held June 20-22 at Great Wolf Lodge in Concord.
The conference’s award ceremony is a longstanding tradition that highlights the commitment, leadership, and service demonstrated by members of North Carolina’s veterinary community. Of the four awards conferred this year, two recipients were present to accept their honors.
2025 Lifetime Meritorious Achievement Award
Dr. Sandy Albright of Raleigh was honored with the Lifetime Meritorious Achievement Award, the highest award given by the NCVMA, which recognizes a lifetime of exceptional service to the profession and to organized veterinary medicine. Former NCVMA President Dr. Jennifer Shults, a longtime mentee of Dr. Albright, presented the award, citing her enduring impact as a leader, advocate, and educator. Dr. Albright’s contributions have shaped the careers of many and strengthened the veterinary profession across the state.
2025 Distinguished Veterinarian Award
Dr. Jane Barber of Sherrill’s Ford received the Distinguished Veterinarian Award. Presented by Immediate Past President Dr. Shannon Bass, the award recognizes a veterinarian who has demonstrated a sustained commitment to clinical excellence, leadership and advancement of the profession. Dr. Barber recently retired after a more than 40-year career marked by her passion for her specialty, theriogenology. Not only did she have one of the few hospitals that specialized in reproductive care for small animals, but she was active in the specialty organizations that oversee the field, as well as involvement in NCVMA. Dr. Barber was especially commended for her dedication to animal health and mentorship of anyone with an interest in theriogenology.
2025 Veterinarian of the Year
Dr. Cat Ashe of Asheville was named Veterinarian of the Year, an award based on her community outreach in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Dr. Ashe responded immediately and compassionately to aid her community. She volunteered at emergency shelters, caring for animals affected by the disaster. She connected veterinarians across the area with each other, helping to create a network of support. She opened a pop-up clinic initially designed to see her own clients, which then expanded into a large-scale response that helped hundreds of pets over several months. Dr. Ashe’s dedication to patient care, community engagement, and professional leadership exemplifies the best of the veterinary field.
2025 Young Veterinarian of the Year
Dr. Anoinette Martin of Charlotte received the Young Veterinarian of the Year Award, which recognizes early-career professionals who have made a significant impact. According to her nominator, Dr. Martin has demonstrated a blend of medical acumen and strategic vision, with an unwavering commitment to patient- and team-centered care, already taking on several leadership positions. At the height of the pandemic, Dr. Martin helped launch Petfolk’s Virtual Care Team, designing a first-of-its-kind model that blends virtual and in-person care to elevate outcomes for pets and providers alike. Criteria for the award include exceptional medical, communication, and leadership skills, active involvement in the profession, commitment to client and patient care, and meaningful contributions to the community.
About NCVMA
The North Carolina Veterinary Medical Association is dedicated to promoting integrity and excellence in veterinary medicine by providing quality continuing education; engaging in public relations and marketing efforts; lobbying/advocating on behalf of the interests of the profession in the NC General Assembly; and supporting a variety of educational and animal welfare philanthropic endeavors.Bottom of Form
