Two years ago, Dr. Tierra Price could not have imagined how her last year in vet school would turn out. She was in her third year at Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine and enjoying life. She was completely focused on the prize: the D.V.M. degree and diploma.
Then, in March 2020, the U.S. Government declared a national health crisis in the form of the COVID-19 pandemic, as did countries across the world.
“2020 was surprising in many ways. The pandemic affected so many lives across the globe. It even changed how veterinary students were educated this year,” says Price.
Like most, 2020 saw Price transitioning to a remote education, video-conference interviews and planning a virtual graduation ceremony. Many found it difficult to adjust; however, Dr. Price pushed back.
She became the unofficial spokesperson of the call for greater diversity within the veterinary profession following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020 and the resulting impact on the Black Lives Matter movement. In addition, she founded Black DVM Network, a community for the empowerment of Black veterinary professionals.
“The network is a resource for Black veterinarians—we offer webinars, a members-only forum, a directory, job boards, and even discounts for helpful services,” says Price.
To top it off, Price was interviewed about diversity in the profession, and the lack thereof, by Time magazine.
After graduation, Dr. Price finds herself living her dream. She works as a high-quality, high-volume spay and neuter surgeon and provides primary care to underserved communities in Los Angeles.
“2020 was not going to break me,” she says.
While the world continues to attempt to stem the tide of the pandemic, Dr. Price says that she is doing what she does best; “adapt and excel.” For her, that means getting up at dawn and having a hot cup of coffee while she watches the sun rise. Then, Dr. Price commutes to her clinic, spends the morning performing surgery and the afternoon providing curbside care to her patients.
“Shelter veterinary life definitely keeps me busy. But, I love it,” says Dr. Price.
When she’s not at work, Dr. Price is busy creating programs and advertising opportunities for Black DVM Network. Somehow, she still finds the time to hike, practice yoga and meditate. She also enjoys “Zoom dates” with her love interest, who lives more than 2,000 miles away.
What does the future hold for Dr. Price? Anything is possible! +
For more information on Black DVM Network, visit www.blackdvmnetwork.com
