Veterinary Products Laboratories (VPL), a division of Central Life Sciences, announced its funding of a 2011 scholarship for an "exceptional veterinary student." The scholarship winner was selected by the Association for Women Veterinarians Foundation (AWVF). Jennifer M. Bonovich, a third year veterinary student at the University of Georgia (UG), College of Veterinary Medicine, received the VPL scholarship. A group of 112 applicants were evaluated by a four-person AWVF committee based on leadership potential, career path and influence in veterinary medicine in and outside of school. Corrie Brown, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVP wrote a letter of recommendation supporting Bonovich. “Jennifer defines the word dependable,” Dr. Brown says. “I know that Jennifer has almost sole care for her young daughter as her husband is in the military and can only be with them for brief periods. It amazes me as to how Jennifer can do well in school, provide so well for her daughter and still show up on time every morning with a big smile.” Bonovich is a lieutenant colonel in the Civil Air Patrol, Air Force Auxiliary, where she conducts search and rescue operations. She is a Federal Aviation Administration certified pilot, certified pharmacy technician and former member of the South Carolina emergency response team. Bonovich serves as student ambassador at UG, senator of the Student Chapter of the American Veterinary Medical Association, volunteer for Hill’s Pet Nutrition college feeding program, student representative for Nutramax Laboratories, wildlife treatment crew member and honor council representative. “As a non-profit foundation, the AWVF relies on financial support from the veterinary industry to reward students for their accomplishments and help them pursue their goals,” says Debra Nickelson, DVM, chairperson for AVW scholarship fundraising. “We are pleased that Veterinary Products Laboratories is able to fund an AWVF Scholarship for a deserving veterinary student.” Bonovich also started a parent’s group to share ideas, seek support and coordinate activities for children. “One does not need to choose either family or veterinary medicine – both can be achieved while being dedicated to both,” Bonovich says. Bonovich’s career focus is working as a veterinarian for the United States Department of Agriculture or Centers for Disease Control to incorporate her passion for veterinary medicine with a desire to be involved on a more global level. Visit WomenVeterinarians.org for more information. <Home>
