Blinn Veterinary Technology Program instructor recognized with Texas Veterinary Medical Association President’s Award

Adjunct instructor Mandy Zachgo was recognized for her contributions to the veterinary profession

April 30, 2024

Since childhood, adjunct Blinn Veterinary Technology Program instructor Mandy Zachgo has felt a deep appreciation for animals. After initially following this connection to a career in zookeeping, Zachgo yearned to delve deeper into the medical side of animal care.

“This desire to broaden my knowledge propelled me to return to school as an adult and embark on a career in veterinary medicine,” Zachgo said. “I also found my passion for teaching. It’s incredibly fulfilling to be able to utilize my skills to help animals in need and play a role in shaping the future of the profession in my current position working with Veterinary Technology Program students.”

This dedication to her field and teaching the next generation of veterinary professionals recently earned Zachgo the Texas Veterinary Medical Association (TVMA) President’s Award.

Presented each year by the TVMA’s outgoing president, this award recognizes individuals who have been effective mentors and made notable contributions to the president’s leadership efforts. Zachgo was selected by outgoing TVMA president Dr. Jodi Long for demonstrating the values of teamwork and trust.

“Mandy is very deserving of this award and we are so thankful that she is a resource for our students,” said Jessica Salazar Garza, Veterinary Technology Program Director. “Her expertise in the field and the contributions she continues to make on the veterinary profession are inspiring. She shows our students that optimal patient care is a team effort and requires constant learning. Her accomplishments serve as an example for them to aspire to.”

Zachgo has been an adjunct instructor at Blinn since 2019. She is a full-time veterinary technician with the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. She previously worked for 12 years as a zookeeper and at the University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine.

In addition to the TVMA President’s Award, Zachgo also was recently recognized with the Bridges Teaching and Service Award by the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences for her outstanding teaching and service contributions to the school.

“Witnessing the genuine excitement on a student’s face as they embark on their learning journey and master new skills is truly rewarding,” Zachgo said. “Being a part of their educational experience and witnessing their transition from students to professionals is incredibly gratifying and reaffirms the importance of mentorship.”

One of just 15 accredited programs in Texas, Blinn’s two-year Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Veterinary Technology prepares students to become fully credentialed licensed veterinary technicians (LVTs). Blinn offers traditional and hybrid pathways for students to earn their AAS degree in Veterinary Technology. Through the three-year hybrid program, students take online and select campus courses en route to their degree.

Blinn ranks among the top Texas community colleges in preparing its students to pass the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE), one of two tests required to become an LVT.

Blinn Veterinary Technology students benefit from the College’s partnership with Texas A&M’s College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. This relationship provides students hands-on training in every aspect of the wide-ranging field. Blinn is the only community college that has an agreement to complete laboratories and clinicals at Texas A&M University’s Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital.

To learn more about applying to Blinn’s Veterinary Technology Program, visit www.blinn.edu/veterinary-technology.