Lincoln Memorial University student named president-elect of the Student American Veterinary Medical Association

Lincoln Memorial University - Richard A. Gillespie College of Veterinary Medicine student Tarra Barron, Class of 2025, has recently been named president-elect of the Student American Veterinary Medical Association.

In an article on the school’s website, LMU-CVM Dean Stacy Anderson, DNM, PhD, DACVS-LA talked about the honor bestowed on Barron, saying, “Tara is a gifted student leader who truly deserves this amazing opportunity to represent the entire SAVMA organization as their president. I have full confidence that she will do a great job and represent LMU well.”

While president-elect, Barron will spend time learning the ins and outs of the role. She will sit on the board of the American Veterinary Medical Foundation as a non-voting member. She will help to provide the board with a student’s perspective on student wellbeing and scholarships. She will also sit on the American Veterinary Medical Association board, as well.

She talked about her appointment, saying, “I am honored to advocate for the 8,000 veterinary students nationwide. I am humbled by the trust that has been placed in me to serve as the eventual SAVMA president. My leadership style will remain centered on servant leadership and prioritizing the interests of our students.”
 
She talked more about how he is excited to bring a spotlight to Lincoln Memorial University, saying, “I look forward to showcasing LMU to other schools and the AVMA, highlighting our excellence in veterinary education.”

Barron has recently served as the treasurer and senior delegate for the Student American Veterinary Medicine Association. Last summer, she and the delegate from the University of Tennessee created a bid to hold the association’s symposium in Knoxville. She also co-founded a Women’s Veterinary Leadership Development Initiative at Lincoln Memorial University. 

Another of Barron’s accomplishments has been starting a Safe Space series at Lincoln Memorial University. She is a non-traditional student with a business background. Since her acceptance into LMU-CVM, she has worked as an advocate for other non-traditional students so that they can also chase their passions and dreams.

More information about Lincoln Memorial University can be found at the school’s website.