Dear Members of the Chicago Veterinary Medical Association,    

It is an honor to introduce myself as your 2026 CVMA President.  As I step into this role, I do so with deep respect for the legacy of leadership that has shaped this organization for more than a century. The CVMA has long been a cornerstone of veterinary excellence in Chicagoland, and I am both humbled and energized to carry that legacy forward while reimagining how we can best support our profession in the years ahead. 

For those whom I have not yet had the pleasure of meeting, my career has been dedicated to advancing veterinary medicine through clinical excellence, medical education, organizational leadership and servant-hearted governance. I am a board-certified small-animal internist who has spent many years practicing in Chicagoland, where I have had the privilege of partnering with countless CVMA members in the care of their patients. That foundation in collaborative, community-centered medicine has shaped every step of my professional journey. In my subsequent medical leadership role I build the Medical Excellence & Education department for a large organization—creating programs and resources to support veterinarians and technicians across nearly 400 hospitals. Today, I continue this work as a leadership faculty member and educator at Lincoln Memorial University, while also serving on advisory boards for both Wedgewood and DVM360. I am honored to be on the CVMA Executive Board and look forward to serving as your President. 

Across all these roles, my purpose has been simple: to elevate veterinary professionals through education, organizational clarity and compassionate leadership. My approach is rooted in listening first, supporting the people who care for animals and creating environments where every member of a team feels welcomed, valued and able to contribute their best work.

My Vision as CVMA President                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       

✨ Honor the Past.
Our predecessors built an organization that has stood the test of time. I am committed to upholding the heritage, integrity and core values that have defined the CVMA for generations. We will celebrate the foundation laid by prior leaders and continue to elevate Chicago as a national center of veterinary excellence.
✨ Strengthen Community & Professional Connection.
The Chicagoland veterinary community is made up of individuals with varied experiences, backgrounds and perspectives—all of which make our profession stronger. My goal is to foster a sense of belonging and connection across the region, ensuring every veterinarian, technician, student and support team member feels that the CVMA is a professional home where they are welcome and supported.
✨ Advance Medical Excellence & Education.
Supporting clinicians through high-quality CE, mentorship and evidence-based resources will be a top priority. I aim to expand accessible CE offerings, deepen ties with local institutions and position the CVMA as a leader in lifelong veterinary learning.
✨ Champion Governance, Transparency, & Stability.
Healthy organizations enable healthy membership. I am committed to strengthening governance, ensuring transparent communication and cultivating a leadership culture grounded in respect, teamwork and shared mission.
✨ Innovate While Staying True to Who We Are.
Chicago has always been a hub of innovation. During my tenure, I plan to embrace opportunities to modernize member support, reimagine programming and elevate our visibility—while staying deeply aligned with the history and values that make the CVMA special.

 

A Commitment to You 

At my core, I am a collaborator. I believe leadership is most effective when it brings people together, invites a wide range of perspectives and ensures that all voices feel heard. My commitment is to lead with humility, clarity and a steadfast dedication to service.   

I will continue listening closely to your experiences, challenges and aspirations. Your insights—and your lived realities as veterinary professionals across Chicagoland—will guide our direction. Together, we will strengthen the CVMA’s role as a beacon of excellence, compassion and community for our region.   

Thank you for your trust. I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to serve, and I look forward to the meaningful work ahead.

 

With respect and appreciation,
Dr. Kelly Cairns
2026 President, Chicago Veterinary Medical Association