On February 9–11, the MSU College of Veterinary Medicine hosted Betsy Charles, DVM, MA, executive director of the Veterinary Leadership Institute and an assistant professor at Western University of Health Sciences. Charles was invited by the Student American Veterinary Medical Association, the Radiology Club, the Equine Club, and the Veterinary Business Management Club to give four presentations focused on leadership, self-love, and equine radiology.

“The most important thing is to weave wellness into how we teach,” said Charles. “If we don't model self-care, students won't do it. As educators, we need to be self-aware and understand how to take time for ourselves.”

Additionally, Charles presented to faculty and staff about veterinary mental health and organizational culture. She spoke about ways veterinary educators proactively manage their own compassion fatigue and work-life balance while teaching students an effective approach to growth and development in the veterinary profession. Charles also discussed self-awareness and how to build a supportive environment among faculty members.

“We need to praise effort, not outcome,” said Charles. “If we want to create an environment of growth and learning, we need to respect students and respect ourselves. Students learn from watching our actions, so we need to do as we tell them to do.”

Charles’ presentations were in support of the first and second pillars of the College’s Strategic Plan: being a global leader in veterinary health education through a cost-effective, learner-centered education for career-ready, high-value graduates, and offering a stimulating and respectful environment that enables the College to recruit, retain, reward, and recognize talented faculty and staff.

Charles earned her DVM from Washington State University and has a master’s degree in Organizational Leadership. She is a speaker nationally renowned for her engaging approach to veterinary education, leadership, and wellness.

In addition to the student clubs, Charles’ visit also was supported by the Robert and Janet Hafner Faculty Endowment Fund.