Meet Our Dedicated Team

Emma has been part of the team since October 2021 and works as a non-certified veterinary technician. Her passion for animal care started young—studying pet anatomy at just eight years old—and grew into hands-on experience starting as a kennel assistant in high school. She’s CPR and animal nutrition certified and finds the most rewarding part of her work is helping sick patients recover and go home. Outside the clinic, Emma enjoys reading, hiking, and spending time with her dog (Zoey), snake (Snakey), and three cats—Bix, Marble, and Nimbus. She’s also a graduate student studying animal science and researching working canine nutrition, with hopes of becoming a veterinarian.

Cortney has been a dedicated veterinary technician since June 2016. She is a Certified Vet Tech and holds both BLS and ALS certifications. Her passion for animals began early and led her to pursue an internship with large animals while in school, which laid the foundation for her career in veterinary medicine. Cortney finds the most rewarding part of her role to be building meaningful bonds with pets and their owners throughout all stages of life. She especially enjoys learning new medications and techniques that help her patients thrive. Outside of work, Cortney enjoys raising her children, spending time outdoors, and reading. At home, she shares her life with two beloved pets: a mini Australian Shepherd named Zoey and a black Lab named Stork.

Tessa joined the team in January 2023 and brings a strong background in customer service, which she’s developed since age 16. Her passion for animals grew after starting at SIU and volunteering at animal shelters. As a CSR, she loves being the first step for owners seeking care for their pets. Outside of work, Tessa enjoys spending time with her boyfriend, friends, and pets—including 2 dogs and 4 cats—watching movies, traveling, and studying. She hopes to pursue research in large animal reproduction or regenerative medicine after graduating from SIU.

Karina joined the hospital in November 2024 after discovering her passion for animal care while working at a vaccine clinic in 2023. She’s dedicated to helping pets who can’t speak for themselves and finds joy in giving owners more time with their beloved animals. Outside of work, Karina enjoys reading, drawing, and spending time with her two black cats, Binx and Finn. A fun fact—she has a background in vocal performance and loves to sing whenever she gets the chance.

Karen has been with the hospital since April 2021, bringing over 8 years of experience in veterinary reception. Her passion for working with animals and eagerness to try something new led her into the field, where she thrives on helping pets and their people get the immediate care they need. Outside of work, Karen enjoys reading, car shows, drag races, swimming, and spending time with her many pets—including 3 rescue dogs, 4 rescue cats, and a rescue Amazon parrot. A lifelong animal lover, Karen began showing dogs at age 11 and has over 40 years of experience in professional show and pet grooming.

Sam has been with the hospital since 2012, starting in the kennels before transitioning into a role as a receptionist and veterinary tech assistant. With 5–6 years of kennel tech experience, Sam brings a strong background in animal care and client service. Motivated by a deep love of animals and a naturally caring nature, Sam entered the veterinary field to be “the voice” for animals. One of the most rewarding parts of the job is helping clients feel confident that their pets are in great hands—and being welcomed with smiles and wagging tails. Outside of work, Sam enjoys baking, reading, watching movies, and spending time with their kids and two pitbulls.

Shiannne joined the hospital in May 2018 after discovering a passion for veterinary medicine during a high school career day. After a formal externship and experience in pet care, Shiannne found their calling as a veterinary technician. They love helping owners feel confident their pets are treated with compassion and care. Outside of work, Shiannne enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with their dog Esther and two cats—one of whom is a tripod.

Kerrie joined the hospital in May 2022 and is currently studying to become a veterinary technician. With a strong passion for animals, Kerrie especially enjoys being an advocate for cats and dogs and finds fulfillment in helping animals heal and get better. Outside of work, Kerrie enjoys hunting and spending time outdoors with their husband and two dogs—a Great Dane and a Labrador Retriever.

Rebecca has been with the hospital since August 2015. Her lifelong love for animals, especially those in rescue, led her to the veterinary field. She began her career at Banfield Pet Hospital, where she worked for four years before joining the team. Rebecca finds it incredibly fulfilling to help animals who can’t speak for themselves. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her son, reading, kayaking, and hiking. She shares her home with two cats—Alfred Pennyworth and Bruce Wayne. Though she holds a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Rebecca’s passion for animal care ultimately guided her career path.

Christa has been with the hospital since 1996 and holds a BA in Zoology. A lifelong animal lover and strong advocate for animal welfare, Christa brings a wealth of experience to her role, including time as a wildlife rehabilitator and a volunteer at a dog/cat rescue facility in New Jersey. She finds it rewarding to help clients quickly and provide them with the knowledge they need to care for their pets. Outside of work, Christa enjoys boating, swimming, hiking, reading, baking—and spending time with her dog.

Jillian has been with the hospital since October 2021 and brings a diverse background in AKC/CKC dog training and four years of experience in shelter medicine. Passionate about animals from an early age, Jillian loves the hands-on nature of veterinary work and is especially drawn to patient care and client education. Outside of work, Jillian enjoys video games, Dungeons & Dragons, Magic: The Gathering, and going on hikes in Cave City. They also collect butterflies and moths, drawn to the symbolism of metamorphosis in life. Jillian shares a home with three dogs—Groot (Chihuahua mix), Wedge (pocket pit), and Grandpa (pug mix)—and three cats: Minish, Poe, and Newt.

Delia joined the hospital team in June 2022, bringing years of experience in animal care. Starting as a shelter caretaker, Delia worked up to technician and veterinary manager before transitioning into her current CSR role. She enjoys being part of a talented, dedicated team and values making a difference in the lives of pets and their families. Outside of work, Delia enjoys reading, hiking with her dog, cooking, working out, and napping. At home, she shares her life with three beloved pets: Albus, an old gentleman cat; Blue, a loving but mildly neurotic cattle dog rescue; and Mimsy, a sweet cat with minor deformities that only make her more endearing.

Debbie has been a friendly and familiar face at the hospital since 2005. Her lifelong love for animals led her into the veterinary field, where she brings years of hands-on experience as an assistant technician, surgery nurse, and receptionist. She finds it incredibly rewarding to watch clients connect with their pets and enjoys getting to know them through all life stages—from puppies and kittens to seniors. Outside of work, Debbie loves spending time with family, hiking, and gardening. She shares her home with two granddogs, Piper and Chris, and a cat affectionately known as “Squinty.”