Dr Kit Sturgess to assume role from 2020-21
The RCVS has announced that Dr Christopher (Kit) Sturgess has been appointed as the new junior vice president of the College for 2020 to 2021.
As an RCVS-recognised specialist in small animal medicine, Dr Strugess has been working as an internist in private referral practice since 2003. As well as being a member of a range of RCVS committees and project groups, he is currently chair of the RCVS Finances & Resources Committee and has been RCVS treasurer since 2017.
Dr Sturgess is also chair of the Small Animal Veterinary Association and a trustee of both Cats Protection and the Wildheart Trust.
Commenting on his election, Dr Sturgess said: "It was a great honour to be elected as the next junior vice president by my fellow council members. I feel that I can make a positive contribution to the work that the RCVS is already undertaking in ensuring the veterinary team remains healthy and respected.
“In particular I am keen to look at how the RCVS can help find solutions to our workforce issues – improving retention as well as encouraging and facilitating vets and nurses back into the profession."
In addition to the appointment of Dr Sturgess as junior vice president, Dr Mandisa Greene was confirmed as president for 2020 to 2021 and current president, Dr Niall Connell, was confirmed as senior vice president for this period.
Professor Susan Dawson was also voted in as RCVS treasurer. Prof Dawson is currently professor and head of school at the University of Liverpool and is chair of the RCVS Mind Matters Initiative. She will formally begin her new role on Friday 10 July during Royal College Day.
Prof Dawson said: “I have been a proud member of the veterinary profession since 1983 and am delighted to be on RCVS Council where, along with our colleagues in Belgravia House, we get the opportunity to make a difference. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time on Council and am very grateful for being given the opportunity to take on the role of treasurer.
“With all the things happening in the veterinary professions and beyond, it is an exciting time to take on the treasurer role and I will do my very best to do as good a job as previous treasurers.”
Image (c) RCVS.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
