Four MSU DVM students journeyed to Washington, D.C. for the American Veterinary Medical Association’s (AVMA) legislative fly-in. The annual event collects members of the veterinary profession, including students, in the nation’s capital to meet with lawmakers and staff. The goal is to make connections and advocate for the needs of the ever-changing veterinary field in the US.

Per the AVMA, “Fly-in participants learn how to develop relationships with their elected officials and become trusted voices of veterinary medicine. That unique, hands-on experience makes this event an impactful opportunity for both veterinarians and veterinary students.”

“What I appreciated about the legislative fly-in was the opportunity to meet veterinarians who represent our state, as well as the new CEO of MVMA,” says participant Miranda Carrisosa, Class of 2027. “Hearing their perspectives was valuable as we met with our state representative and senator offices and learned how the legislation could impact practice in our state. It was a great opportunity to be an advocate for our future profession.”

McKenna Adams, Class of 2027, adds, “Having the opportunity to attend the veterinary legislative fly-in really reinforced how important the roles of advocacy and education are in the veterinary industry. It not only allowed me to engage with lawmakers about issues impacting the veterinary career as a whole, but also deepened my understanding of the legislative process while connecting with practicing veterinarians.”

Along with the students quoted above, Andrew Caldemeyer, Class of 2028, and Madeleine Crawford, Class of 2028, attended the fly-in. The group met with Michigan congressional offices, as well as the two Michigan senator offices to discuss the Rural Veterinary Workforce Act and the Combating Illicit Xylazine Act.