Equine health professionals from New York and Wisconsin were recently honored for their skill and dedication with the 2018 Champions of the Cause Award.
The award, presented by Boehringer Ingelheim, recognizes excellence among equine veterinary technician and assistant professions. This year’s winners were Lisa Amtower, of Rhinebeck Equine Hospital, and Ashley Cashwell, of Bristol Veterinary Service. They were recognized during the American Association of Equine Veterinary Technicians (AAEVT) Annual Convention in San Francisco, Calif
Amtower
Amtower has worked for Rhinebeck Equine Hospital, in Rhinebeck, New York, for six years. She’s a lifelong horsewoman who managed Thoroughbred training farms and foxhunting operations. Currently, Amtower is part of the team responsible for patient care in a full-service equine hospital. Her duties include training staff members and assisting interns with patient admissions and cases.
She was nominated by Jenna Donaldson, DVM, who said Amtower displays dedication, strength of character and commitment to the industry.
“She embraces the concept that teamwork makes the dream work, which is essential for successful operation of an equine hospital,” she said in a statement. “Overall, Lisa is an exceptional part of the Rhinebeck Equine team and is very deserving of the Champions of the Cause Award.”
The award is recognition of Amtower’s commitment to furthering her knowledge and sharing it with others, said John Tuttle, DVM, director of Equine Professional Services for Boehringer Ingelheim.
“Lisa has worked tirelessly to improve her patients’ health and quality of life, and we’re proud to recognize her excellence,” Tuttle said.
Cashwell
Cashwell was introduced to horses when she worked at a stable in exchange for riding time and lessons. She went on to manage a stable and then found a career in equine health. Cashwell has worked as a field assistant for the past eight years, but it’s her educational drive that impressed her nominator, Kevin Nelson, DVM.
“Her continuing search for knowledge and daily enthusiasm demonstrates it’s not about the paycheck but a life dedicated to the cause,” Nelson said.
Cashwell, who works at Bristol Veterinary Services, in Salem, Wisconsin, makes time to educate horse owners about equine health and helped establish a therapeutic riding program in a developing country. Both staff and clients turn to Ashley when help is needed.
“Recognizing committed industry advocates like Ashley is why we present this award each year,” Tuttle said. “Her passion for equine health is underscored by her dedication to the industry, and for that, we commend her.”
Champions of the Cause
The Champions of the Cause Award, presented in partnership with EquiManagement and AAEVT, included a custom-designed plaque, an embroidered jacket, an all-expenses-paid trip to the AAEVT Annual Convention and recognition there, and a year-long AAEVT membership.
The winners, nominated by a veterinarian, must have a passion for equine health, a commitment to further their knowledge of equine well-being and dedication to continuously improve the equine health industry.
For more details about Champions of the Cause Award, visit www.championsofthecause.com.
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