2008 - History of the Program of Veterinary Technology at Manor College
In January, the Program held its first all-program meeting for students and faculty. Discussions focused on the idea of students writing their own honor-code. The Program-community decided to form a student-run committee to investigate honor codes used by other colleges and to formulate some ideas about how a Vet Tech honor code might be implemented. Students Jackie Wivel and Allan Rubin headed up this committee.
In February, Beverly Bisaccia organized the first canine blood donation at Manor College; the focal point was a visit from Penn’s Blood Mobile. Several students and school community members volunteered their dogs, which were screened for suitability as donors.
In April, on behalf of the College, Dr. Bassert arranged a license agreement with Animal Care Technologies (ACT) for use of the Large Animal Clinical Procedures videos that were developed using grant funding. Derivative works will be produced by ACT and distributed via on-line subscriptions and DVD. A laboratory manual (first edition) to accompany the Clinical Anatomy and Physiology for Veterinary Technicians textbook was released.
In May and June, Dr. Bassert supervised renovations of the Lab Animal Vivarium (Room 18) and the Small Animal Clinical lab (Room 15); both facilities were painted, new ceilings installed, and new cabinets and counter tops were installed. In addition, a room to house rabbits was constructed adjacent to the existing rodent room from a pre-existing closet.
During the summer, Dr. Komurek completed work on standard criteria and compiled the student handbook. In addition, Dr. Komurek and Dr. Bassert completed the comprehensive self-study report for re-accreditation, and compiled course syllabi.
The fall Project Running Happy Paws trip was organized by Beverly Bisaccia. There were two teams of students who participated. Team one included: Jackie May, Jackie Wivel, and Megan Beach. Team two included: Katelyn Mursch and Lisa Thomas. On October 22, 23 and 24, the Program was evaluated by CVTEA’s on-site review team.
The Program received an excellent review by CVTEA. In the final meeting, many accolades were given, no critical recommendation and only one major recommendation. Full accreditation was continued.
