Congratulations to Outstanding RVT of the Year, Melina Stambolis!
Each year, the California Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) recognizes veterinary professionals who have made significant contributions to the profession. We are so proud to share that our very own Melina Stambolis has received the prestigious Linda Markland Outstanding RVT of the Year in Non-Private Practice Award! 🎉 Melina’s passion and commitment truly sets her apart, and it’s inspiring to see her efforts celebrated in such a meaningful way.
Melina is an integral force in our veterinary programs. As our Veterinary Operations Supervisor, she brings a high standard of excellence and dedication to the role. From teaching novice vet techs critical techniques to ensuring that all of our clinics are functioning smoothly and efficiently, Melina’s endless compassion, grace, and skill inspire us all! Congratulations Melina! 👏
“I can confidently say that Melina is not only the best RVT I’ve ever worked with, but she stands out as one of the most knowledgeable and well-rounded professionals in our field”
2024 Linda Markland Outstanding RVT of the Year in Non-Private Practice Award: Melina Stambolis, RVT
Each year, the CVMA honors individuals who exemplify the very best of the veterinary profession in California. This year, the CVMA honored registered veterinary technician Melina Stambolis with the 2024 Linda Markland Outstanding RVT of the Year in Non-Private Practice Award.
Melina has devoted her professional career to the mission of helping animals and people in underserved communities. She currently serves as the veterinary operations supervisor at the Humane Society of Sonoma County, where she supervises and trains staff in a High-Quality, High-Volume Spay/Neuter (HQHVSN) clinic. Melina is recognized for revolutionizing the Humane Society of Sonoma County’s HQHVSN support staff training program, including introducing specialized training modules covering advanced surgical techniques, anesthesia management for complex cases, pain management, and post-operative care. One reason Melina stands out as an invaluable mentor is her drive to stay up-to-date on advancements in veterinary medicine, which she uses to keep her clinic constantly evolving.
In addition to her breadth of knowledge and mentorship skills, colleagues highlight Melina’s infectious sense of humor, positive attitude, reliability, and professionalism. “I can confidently say that Melina is not only the best RVT I’ve ever worked with, but she stands out as one of the most knowledgeable and well-rounded professionals in our field,” wrote Albert Escobedo, RVTg, Director of Veterinary Operations of the Humane Society of Sonoma County.
In addition to her work at the Humane Society of Sonoma County, Melina has played an integral role in the collaborative efforts between the Rural Area Veterinary Services, the International Veterinary Consultants (IVC), and the Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association. This cooperative program offers courses on anesthesia and surgery to veterinary professional living on Native American reservations as well as internationally, often in Central America. The volunteers also utilize the program to provide veterinary care to animals in the areas’ underserved communities, whose owners cannot afford basic veterinary care. As a teacher of anesthesia for this program, Melina worked tirelessly and patiently to teach her students the ins and outs of safe anesthesia, recovery, basic medical care, and client communication. “[Melina] is a pillar of strength, patience, and knowledge [who has] contributed greatly to the safety and efficacy of the teaching clinics,” wrote Dr. Susan Monger, Director of the IVC.
Melina feels driven by the powerful ripple effect of working with underserved communities: veterinary professionals witness the clear impact of that work, vulnerable animals receive advanced medical care and a second chance, and families get to stay together. “It is enough just to help one individual animal,” Melina writes. “[But] it’s transformative to see a web of change that has the potential to create kinder and more interconnected communities.”
“Congratulations to the 2024 Award Winners”
California Veterinary Medical Association (cvma.net)