Genesee Community College is excited to announce the appointment of Stephanie Ortel, LVT as the new director of Veterinary Technology. With a proven track record of leadership and expertise in the field, Stephanie brings a wealth of experience that will contribute to the continued growth and success of the college’s Veterinary Technology program.
Stephanie is a Western New York native. She graduated from Medaille College with an AS in Veterinary Technology in 1999 and a BS in Veterinary Technology in 2005. Throughout her career her area of veterinary medicine has focused on pain management and physical rehab therapy for dogs and cats. Stephanie earned a MS in Adult Education from Buffalo State College in 2018. She started as an adjunct instructor at GCC in 2016 and then became a full-time instructor in 2021.
Stephanie expressed her excitement about joining Genesee Community College,stating, “As program director, I hope to continue the tradition passed from Dr. Carrie Caccamise of a highly regarded vet tech program. The Vet Tech department is committed to producing quality graduates ready to enter the workforce.”
Veterinary technicians work with veterinarians in private practice as well as in zoos, animal shelters, wildlife facilities and in research labs. Some technicians have careers with pharmaceutical companies, pet food companies or in diagnostic laboratories.
GCC’s Vet Tech program was established in 2010 and received full American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) accreditation in 2017. The program is accredited through 2028 after passing the most recent AVMA review in 2022. The program also boasts a very successful passing rate of 86% for first time test takers on national board exam.The program was adjusted to accommodate displaced Medaille University vet tech students, enabling them to complete their degrees here at GCC. The demand for vet tech graduates is extremely high. Learn more about GCC’s Vet Tech program at http://t.119178.com/academics/programs/veterinary-technology/.
For more information contact Vice President, Development and External Affairs Justin Johnston at (585) 345-6809, or via email: jmjohnston@119178.com.