Missed the live session? Watch the replay and discover what’s truly shaping the future of veterinary medicine. From evolving client expectations and workforce challenges to rapid innovation and rising costs—today’s veterinary leaders are under more pressure than ever. This powerful summit brings together top minds across the veterinary ecosystem for a high-impact, solution-driven conversation on how to not only survive, but thrive in this new era.
This isn’t abstract theory—it’s practical, actionable guidance you can apply right now to lead stronger, operate smarter, and support your team more effectively.
Your roadmap to a resilient, future-ready, and people-centered practice:
Watch Now & Start Leading the Evolution
This is your opportunity to rethink what success looks like in veterinary medicine—and take bold, practical steps toward a more sustainable, innovative, and fulfilling future for your entire team.
Senior Manager of Artificial Intelligence, Mars Petcare
Medical AI Engineer | Veterinarian | Data Scientist
Dr. Emil Walleser is a veterinarian and data scientist dedicated to transforming animal and human health through artificial intelligence. Raised on a dairy farm in rural Wisconsin, Emil developed an early appreciation for the connection between animal health and data-driven decision-making. This foundation led him to earn a degree in Dairy Science from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he first discovered his passion for applying analytics to complex biological challenges.
He went on to complete his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) at UW–Madison’s School of Veterinary Medicine, followed by a PhD in Comparative Biomedical Sciences with a minor in Statistics. His doctoral research focused on AI-driven diagnostics and predictive modeling in veterinary medicine, setting the stage for a career at the forefront of medical innovation.
Currently, Emil serves as Senior Manager of Artificial Intelligence at Mars Petcare, where he leads multidisciplinary teams in developing cutting-edge AI tools for veterinary diagnostics. His work integrates multi-modal data—spanning cardiology, radiology, and more—to enhance diagnostic accuracy, improve patient outcomes, and bring real clinical impact to veterinary care.
With a strong focus on responsible innovation, Emil specializes in the design, validation, and deployment of AI systems that meet rigorous standards of medical performance. His projects often benchmark AI tools against clinical gold standards, helping build trust in emerging technologies within veterinary medicine and beyond.
A passionate educator and advocate, Emil frequently presents at conferences and has co-instructed university courses in veterinary medicine and epidemiology. He is known for making complex technical topics accessible and inspiring cross-disciplinary collaboration between medicine, data science, and engineering.
Based in Denver, Colorado, Emil continues to draw on his roots—blending hands-on clinical insight with technical expertise. Outside of work, he enjoys cooking, exploring the outdoors, and spending time with his fiancée (also a veterinarian) and their two beloved dogs: Ghibli the Frenchie and Hops the Golden.
CEO, Empower Business Strategies
Human Capital Strategist | Fractional HR Executive | Veterinary M&A Advisor
Anthony LaPolla is a strategic human resources leader, M&A integration expert, and veterinary HR advisor dedicated to helping organizations unlock the full potential of their people. With over 15 years of experience across industries and deep specialization in the veterinary space, Anthony brings a transformative approach to leadership development, workforce strategy, and organizational design.
As the Founder and CEO of Empower Business Strategies, Anthony leads a full-service HR consulting and leadership development firm that partners with early- to mid-stage startups, veterinary practices, and mission-driven organizations. His work focuses on aligning people strategies with business outcomes—boosting retention, fostering inclusive culture, and preparing teams for sustainable growth.
Anthony holds a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership from Medaille College and a bachelor’s in Health Studies and Human Behavior from Utica College. His education is further enriched by training in communication, management, and mortuary sciences—underscoring a lifelong commitment to service, empathy, and interdisciplinary insight.
Previously, he held pivotal HR leadership roles at United Veterinary Care and Encore Vet Group, where he specialized in M&A integrations and performance management. He has developed integration roadmaps for complex veterinary acquisitions and led cross-functional teams through change initiatives that drive measurable value post-transaction.
Known for blending strategic thinking with hands-on execution, Anthony advises veterinary leadership teams on everything from HR compliance and onboarding to long-term talent development and change readiness. Through Empower Business Strategies, he helps build people-first cultures that scale with confidence.
Based in New York, Anthony is a sought-after speaker and thought partner in veterinary business forums. He is passionate about equipping veterinary leaders with the frameworks, tools, and support needed to create workplaces where both people and practices can thrive.
Founder & CEO, Claire-ity Group LLC
Author | Artist | Narrator and Creator
Claire Pickens is a dynamic business executive and entrepreneur with over two decades of experience leading operations and driving growth across the veterinary and small business sectors. Based in Orlando, Florida, she is the Founder and CEO of Claire-ity Group LLC, a consultancy that helps entrepreneurs launch and grow pet-centric businesses through expert business planning, startup project management, and industry connections.
Claire holds an Executive MBA from the Jack Welch Management Institute, a Bachelor’s in Human Resources with a Marketing minor, and multiple certifications including CVPM, Six Sigma Green Belt, and Fear Free. Her career includes senior leadership roles at organizations like Heartland Veterinary Partners and Thrive Pet Healthcare, where she managed multi-million-dollar portfolios, led nationwide operational initiatives, and built high-performing teams.
A published author, speaker, and creative mind behind Claire’s Unicorn Adventures, Claire combines strategic insight with a passion for education and innovation. She’s delivered talks on leadership, EQ, and communication, and continues to inspire others through both her professional expertise and creative projects.
When she’s not mentoring future entrepreneurs or spearheading animal health innovations, Claire enjoys life with her husband Jamie, their two adult sons, and a lovable trio of pets—Bradley the Golden, Muffin the Schnauzer, and Spot the cat.
CEO & Co-Founder, VetSkribe
Veterinary Marketing Strategist | Industry Advocate
Jacinthe Moreau is a dynamic leader and strategic marketer with over two decades of experience shaping veterinary brands, guiding industry associations, and empowering practice success. As CEO and Co-Founder of VetSkribe, Jacinthe is focused on transforming veterinary documentation workflows to improve clinician well-being, practice efficiency, and patient care.
Jacinthe brings a powerful mix of corporate marketing expertise and association leadership to the veterinary space. She previously served as President of the World Pet Association, leading initiatives to strengthen the pet care ecosystem. Her past roles include Senior Director of Marketing Operations at VCA, where she led national initiatives for pharmaceutical branding and home delivery, and senior marketing positions at VetSource, Merial, Intervet Schering-Plough, and Vetoquinol.
With a Bachelor’s in Marketing from Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM), Jacinthe is a bilingual industry thought leader with deep roots in both North American and global veterinary markets. She is passionate about advancing solutions that enhance the veterinary client experience, empower care teams, and build sustainable growth across the profession.
Founder & CEO, The VET Recruiter
Animal Health Talent Strategist | Workplace Expert
Stacy Pursell, CPC, CERS, is an internationally respected Executive Recruiter and Search Consultant, recognized as one of the top 1% of search consultants worldwide. Based in the United States, Stacy has over 25 years of experience in executive search and recruiting, specializing in the Animal Health, Veterinary, Pet Specialty, Animal Nutrition, Animal Science, and Agriculture industries. She has built a reputation as a Talent Scout, Workplace Expert, and Workforce Specialist, dedicated to helping organizations recruit and retain top-tier talent.
Stacy’s career is marked by several groundbreaking achievements. She was the first recruiter in the United States to specialize in the Animal Health and Veterinary professions, developing these industries into niche specialties for executive search. Known as a trend spotter and trailblazer, Stacy has filled more positions in these industries than any other recruiter in the country. Her expertise extends across all levels of hiring, including C-level executives, senior management, mid-level managers, and individual contributors. She has successfully assisted major Animal Health companies, start-ups, and veterinary hospitals—both corporate and privately owned—to find exceptional talent, including executive leaders, medical directors, associate veterinarians, and board specialists.
Stacy holds a BA in Broadcast Journalism from Oklahoma State University and began her professional journey in the television broadcasting and advertising industries before transitioning to the recruiting profession in 1997. Her entrepreneurial spirit, keen insights, and commitment to excellence have earned her a stellar reputation in the field.
Today, Stacy continues to lead the way in executive recruiting for the Animal Health and Veterinary industries, helping companies in the United States, Canada, and abroad build world-class teams. Her unparalleled success rate and ability to adapt to industry trends have solidified her place as a leader in her field.
Director of Hospital Operations, Blue Heron Consulting
Veterinary Business Strategist | Start-Up Consultant
Nick’s journey into veterinary medicine began through his wife, Taylor, a veterinary student, and has evolved into a distinguished career in veterinary practice management.
Joining Blue Heron Consulting in 2017 as a coach for aspiring owners, Nick played a pivotal role in establishing the company’s Start-Up & Acquisition division, transforming it into a leading segment within the organization. By 2019, he transitioned into an operational coach role and subsequently became the Director of Hospital Operations, overseeing a team of over 15 consultants. Currently, Nick leads Blue Heron Consulting’s Start-Up & Acquisition, Hospital Coaching, and Valuation divisions, as well as manages the company’s external relationships.
Beyond his consulting expertise, Nick has honed his leadership skills as a partner in four veterinary hospitals across the United States. He remains actively engaged in strategic planning, financial growth, and staff development, emphasizing the empowerment of managers and staff to pursue ownership opportunities within the veterinary industry.
Outside of his professional endeavors, Nick enjoys spending time on his hobby farm with his wife and sons, Jack, Noah, and Waylon. Their family is accompanied by a diverse array of pets, including three steer calves, two pygmy goats, 30 chickens, two garage cats, two indoor cats, and an 8-year-old Springer Spaniel named Evie. The family also cherishes outdoor activities and quality time with extended family
Operational Coach, Blue Heron Consulting
Veterinary Practice Consultant | Culture Builder
Stacy Gentry joins the Blue Heron Consulting team as an Operational Coach, bringing over twenty years of veterinary experience to our clients. Her journey in veterinary medicine started as a Client Service Representative at Wellington Veterinary Hospital (WVH) in 2001. In the years ahead, she found opportunities to grow into new positions that allowed her to focus on her Why: connecting with and caring for animals. In 2016, Stacy become the practice manager and was able to make valuable changes to both the hospital and culture. These changes propelled WVH into a four-doctor hospital. In 2018, she fulfilled a lifelong dream and became a practice owner. Along the way, Stacy attended Veterinary Management Institute and coached communications to third-year veterinary students at Colorado State University.
WVH was purchased in 2020 and Stacy found a new opportunity coaching other practice managers. This eye-opening experience allowed her to help cultivate an environment that allowed leadership teams and hospitals to shine. Stacy knew this was her new path – her new Why.
When Stacy is not coaching, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Vince, her children, and their numerous pets. She is an avid hiker and loves kayaking and camping in the beautiful Rocky Mountains; and she is always on the hunt for the next great beer at the many breweries in Colorado!
Co-Founder, President & CEO, One Health Group
Veterinary Innovation Leader | Technologist
Albert Di Rienzo is a visionary executive and prolific innovator with a career spanning over three decades at the intersection of science, medicine, and technology. As Cofounder and CEO of One Health Group—creators of Voyce Vet—Albert is pioneering breakthrough diagnostic and monitoring solutions that transform animal and human health outcomes.
Albert has launched and commercialized over 100 medical solutions and holds multiple patents. He has led innovation-driven companies including Blue Highway, RedSky, and Radicle Innovation, and served in executive leadership roles at global organizations such as Welch Allyn, Philips Medical Systems, and Siemens. Throughout his career, Albert has shaped high-performing R&D ecosystems, driven billion-dollar growth trajectories, and helped define best practices in digital health, diagnostics, and translational science.
Named a Future of Health Technology Awardee and recognized by Frost & Sullivan as a Most Valuable Thought Leader, Albert is committed to bridging human and animal health through integrative, forward-thinking technologies. He holds degrees in Computer Science and Data Science, and has taught forensic science at Syracuse University, where he also helped establish a research incubator connecting academia and industry.
Partner, Forchelli Deegan Terrana LLP
Legal Strategist | DEA Compliance Advisor
Mary E. Mongioi is a leading attorney and trusted advisor in the veterinary and dental industries, known for her deep expertise in corporate transactions, regulatory compliance, and strategic counsel. A Partner at Forchelli Deegan Terrana LLP since 2015, Mary chairs the firm’s Veterinary practice group, where she guides clients through every phase of their business—from formation to acquisition, financing, and transition.
Mary’s legal practice is rooted in a comprehensive understanding of the veterinary profession’s business landscape. She represents a diverse range of clients, including private equity-backed consolidators and independent practice owners, advising on mergers and acquisitions, buy-ins and partnership structures, lease negotiations, and complex corporate contracts. Her dual specialization in DEA and regulatory compliance makes her a go-to expert for navigating audits, diversion cases, and controlled substance regulations.
Recognized for both her legal acumen and leadership, Mary was named to Crain’s New York Business 2022 Notable Women in Law list, honoring her outstanding achievements in law and her commitment to community and industry advancement. She also served as Chair of VetPartners’ 2021 Virtual Annual Meeting, reflecting her dedication to thought leadership and cross-disciplinary collaboration within the veterinary business sector.
Mary is passionate about empowering veterinary professionals to build legally sound, financially sustainable, and ethically grounded practices. Her strategic insight and client-first approach continue to shape the future of veterinary business law nationwide.