I am the state wildlife veterinarian for the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. The mission of the AGFC is to conserve and enhance Arkansas’ fish and wildlife and their habitats while promoting sustainable use, public understanding and support. I serve two roles in the agency. As a veterinarian, I advocate for management approaches that will benefit the health of our state’s fish and wildlife populations. I also serve as assistant chief of our research division.
I rarely handle animals. People hear "veterinarian" and they think I must cuddle wild animals all day. I work mostly on population level management, research and policy. I love my job, but I think it’s different than most people envision.
It was in regard to scientific writing, but it really applies to everything: Say exactly what you mean, not almost what you mean or approximately what you mean, then say it in as few words as possible.
I love what I do. I go back every day with the hope that I am making the world a little better, laying the groundwork for our fish and wildlife resources to flourish long after I’m gone.
I knew that conservation medicine was my passion the first time I opened a book about wildlife diseases. I was torn between wildlife management and veterinary medicine for my career, and that’s when I knew I could do both.
My best career moment to date was the day I was offered my current position with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. It really felt too good to be true.
Little Rock feels like home because it is home. My husband and I were both born and raised in central Arkansas. After living out of state for 10 years, moving back has really made me appreciate Arkansas even more.
The Committee of One Hundred for the Ozark Folk Center is a wonderful group that promotes the mission of the OFC and supports several of its most popular programs. They are such a wonderful group of ladies.
I have always wanted to meet Dr. Mamie Parker. She’s from Arkansas and seems like a really dynamic leader and an advocate for diversity in conservation. I have so many questions I’d love to ask her.
