In a shining example of dedication, teamwork and excellence in agriculture, the Fowlerville FFA team emerged victorious in the Michigan FFA Veterinary Science Career Development Event (CDE), held on April 19 on the campus of Michigan State University. Competing in the second largest of the 17 CDEs held that day with 476 contestants, the team of Katherine McKalko, Jaclyn Lusby, Grace Lapczynski and Ava Neirynck showcased their exceptional skills and commitment, securing a state win.
The Veterinary Science Contest provides students with practical experiences and knowledge in the field of veterinary medicine. Participants are evaluated on their proficiency in veterinary terminology, clinical procedures, animal handling and basic veterinary practices. The purpose of the contest is to promote career readiness and technical competence in veterinary science, preparing students for future roles in the animal health industry.
Advisor Curtis Refior beams with pride as he reflects on the team’s journey. “What makes this team special is simple—they’re some of the hardest-working, most dedicated and passionate people I know,” Curtis remarks. He emphasizes the valuable life and career skills the Veterinary Science Contest builds in students, from problem-solving and teamwork to leadership and resilience. Curtis is particularly proud of the team’s ability to pave the way for future successes, marking Fowlerville’s first victory in an FFA skills contest.
As the state winner, Fowlerville will represent Michigan FFA at the 97th National FFA Convention and Expo, to be held from October 23-26, 2024, in Indianapolis. Their journey is an inspiration to fellow students and a reminder of the power of dedication and teamwork. With bright futures ahead, these young veterinary enthusiasts are well on their way to making significant contributions to the field of animal care.
Learn more about each of the team members below.
The Veterinary Science Contest is proudly sponsored by Zoetis. Zoetis’s purpose is to nurture the world and humankind by advancing animal care. The company makes vaccines, medicines, diagnostics and other technologies for pets and farm animals.
Grace Lapczynski: From Reptiles to Recognition
Chapter historian Grace Lapczynski, also 18, found her path to veterinary science through her passion for reptiles and amphibians. Despite having limited formal veterinary experience, Grace’s extensive research and hands-on experience with her own 10 reptiles have prepared her well. She plans to major in Zoology at MSU, with a potential career in exotic veterinary medicine. “The contest pushed me to put a lot of effort towards something,” Grace explains. Her journey with FFA began unexpectedly, but the opportunities and community it offered inspired her to strive for excellence.
Jaclyn Lusby: A Lifelong Dream
Eighteen-year-old Jaclyn Lusby, the Fowlerville FFA’s sentinel, has been driven by her dream of becoming a veterinarian for as long as she can remember. Working at Griffith Veterinary Hospital as a veterinary assistant, she handles tasks from running tests to restraining animals. “I learned that I can do difficult things if I set my mind to it,” Jaclyn shares. Her favorite part of the contest was working with her friends and challenging themselves, reinforcing the power of teamwork and perseverance.
Katherine McKalko: A Passion Realized
Katherine Irene McKalko, the 17-year-old vice president of the Fowlerville FFA, has had a lifelong affinity for animals, guiding her toward a future in veterinary medicine. Her journey began at Howell Animal Hospital, where she started as a volunteer at 14 and quickly progressed to a veterinary assistant by 15. “I soaked in as much information as I could,” Katherine recalls. “Now, I can draw blood, run blood work and start appointments.” This fall, she will attend MSU to study animal science, with aspirations of becoming a marine veterinarian. Katherine’s drive is a testament to her belief in the power of FFA’s supportive community, which she credits for helping her thrive and grow.
Ava Neirynck: Leading with Passion
Chapter president Ava Neirynck, 18, has always been drawn to animal care. With a background in genetics, anatomy and animal science, and hands-on experience from internships and clinic work, Ava is well-prepared for her future. She plans to study Zoology and Pre-Veterinary Medicine at MSU, with dreams ranging from owning a clinic to being a traveling wildlife vet. Ava’s involvement in FFA began in her Agriscience Zoology and Botany class, and she quickly embraced the leadership opportunities it provided. “My leadership, skills, and confidence today have exceeded my own expectations,” she says.
