Jackie decided to be a part of the veterinary field because she always loved animals and wanted to care for them, and her family encouraged her to follow her dreams. In 2003, Jackie began learning the basics, working overnight and caring for critical patients. Her journey to her current position at VHA started in 2008, when Dr. Nations put a little faith in Jackie and hired her. She had just moved from California and had no family or friends. VHA took her in with open arms and showed her the value of critical thinking and patient care, and became like a second family.
Since then, Jackie has learned so much and grown immensely. In 2016, she took the leap and became the overnight Team Leader. Then in 2018, she became the Daytime Emergency Team Leader. Her biggest accomplishment occurred in 2020 when she became the Patient Care Coordinator. This current role allows Jackie to take care of her team and make sure they’re providing the best possible care to all their patients. Jackie has 1 animal companion, a mixed Terrier named Nala. In her spare time, she enjoys crafting, hiking, and gardening.