Columbia State Community College Veterinary Technology instructor Savannah “Brie” Pruitt was recently recognized as a fellow of the Association of Veterinary Technician Educators (AVTE).

Ms. Pruitt is a member of the 2024 inaugural class of fellows. The designation recognizes dedication and expertise as a veterinary technician educator, active professional society involvement, and mentorship of future technicians. Brie is one of only 50 veterinary technology educators across the U.S. and Canada to have received the fellow designation.

“Professional societies bestow the ‘fellow’ distinction on individuals who make extraordinary contributions to the discipline,” said Dr. Kae Fleming, Columbia State dean of the Health Sciences Division. “Ms. Pruitt demonstrates for students the importance of staying passionate and continuously learning new things!”

Candidates for fellows’ designation must be a graduate of an American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) accredited veterinary technology or Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program and document at least five years of professional experience.

AVTE Fellows represent a commitment to leadership and innovation in educating the next generation of veterinary technicians. 

“I am truly honored to be recognized by my peers as an AVTE Fellow,” said Pruitt, a veterinarian technology instructor. “This recognition gives support to the Veterinary Technician program as a whole - reinforcing the level of commitment, professionalism and passion that is required of this field. I look forward to continuing to educate, mentor, promote and lead future groups of veterinary technicians.”