My name is Clayton Guyotte, and I am a third-year DVM candidate at Louisiana State University SVM. I am originally from Ruston, Louisiana where I attended high school, graduating in 2020, and continued my education at Louisiana Tech University, graduating in 2023 obtaining a bachelor’s in Animal Science and a minor degree in Chemistry.

During undergrad, I worked as a veterinary assistant at two different practices where I obtained training in small animal companion medicine and mixed animal practice obtaining experience with equine, bovine, small ruminants, porcine, and various exotics categories including small mammalian exotics, reptiles – including alligators, avian species, and assisting with laparoscopic AI in domestic whitetail deer.

Upon acceptance and arrival at LSU, I launched myself into being involved. Confirming my business passion through involvement with our local VBMA chapter, I attended the Regional Gulf Coast Summit in 2024 and obtained my BCP certificate in spring 2025. I believe it is exceptionally important for someone involved in this field to learn operations on financial, medical, professional, networking, and political levels. I feel VBMA directly contributes to this mission and was ecstatic to apply and honored to accept the position as Regional Leader where I can collaborate with like-minded individuals.

In addition to my involvement within VBMA, I was a Student Live-In for the LSU veterinary teaching hospital my first year, served as Class of 2027 student representative, served on LSU SAVMA executive board, 2024 & 2025 spring Lambing and Kidding teams, summer 2024 employment in LSU SVM anatomy laboratory, a founding executive member and current two-year treasurer of LSU’s veterinary dermatology club.

My primary professional interest is in specializing in Veterinary Ophthalmology with the end-goal of starting a multi-specialty private practice. I currently am involved in opossum ocular research and am working towards two publications.

Outside of my academic pursuits, I am an avid sports and outdoorsman where my hobbies are golfing, gardening, hunting, fishing, kayaking, hiking, backpacking, and camping. Fun fact: this past summer I went on an 8,000-mile road/camping trip across 10 states, 13 national parks, and multiple state parks, so if you ever need a laid-back, fun-loving travel buddy – I’m your guy!

My name is Tony Rago, and I am a third-year veterinary student at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine. I’m originally from Lititz, Pennsylvania, and I’ve been surrounded by animals for as long as I can remember. Growing up in a household full of pets, I learned early on the significant impact animals can have on people’s lives. That connection is what pushed me toward veterinary medicine and continues to shape the way I approach the profession today.

Throughout my time at UT, I’ve been heavily involved in leadership and student development. I previously served as the National Treasurer for the Veterinary Business Management Association (VBMA), where I helped oversee national finances, strengthen organizational systems, and collaborate with chapters and sponsors across the country. I also served as a Royal Canin Student Ambassador for the Class of 2027, bringing nutrition-focused programming, hands-on events, and educational opportunities to our student body.

Medically, my interests include emergency medicine, general practice ownership, and exotic animal care. Before starting vet school, I worked for several years in an emergency and specialty hospital, which reinforced my passion for high-intensity clinical work and teamwork-driven environments. After graduation, I plan to return north and pursue a career in emergency medicine, with a strong emphasis on communication, emotional intelligence, and client connection.

Medically, my interests include emergency medicine, general practice ownership, and exotic animal care. Before starting vet school, I worked for several years in an emergency and specialty hospital, which reinforced my passion for high-intensity clinical work and teamwork-driven environments. After graduation, I plan to return north and pursue a career in emergency medicine, with a strong emphasis on communication, emotional intelligence, and client connection.

Outside of school and leadership roles, you’ll usually find me at the gym, golfing, hiking in the Smoky Mountains, or attempting new recipes that may or may not turn out the way I intended. I’ve always believed that bringing humor, energy, and authenticity into the profession is just as important as the medical knowledge we gain along the way. As an RL, I’m excited to continue supporting students, building community, and helping people feel like they belong here because they do.

Haleigh Johnson is a DVM candidate in the Class of 2027 at Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine. Born and raised in Dallas, Texas, she earned her B.S. in Biology and minored in chemistry in December 2021 from Southwestern College in Winfield, Kansas, where she balanced academics with a full life on campus – playing on the Women’s Basketball team, serving in the Student Government Association, and working as a teaching assistant for Biology 1 and 2. After graduation, Haleigh jumped straight into the veterinary field as a technician assistant at a mixed-animal clinic specializing in canine theriogenology. That hands-on experience lit a spark and opened the door to her growing passion for theriogenology as a future specialty.

Leadership comes naturally to Haleigh. She steps up, brings people together, and elevates those around her. In 2025, she took on the challenge of serving as both SAVMA President and VBMA President – while also holding roles such as Class Fundraising Co-Chair, Thrive Pet Healthcare Student Ambassador, and ALVMA Representative. These experiences helped strengthen her voice, build powerful collaborations, and lead diverse student groups with energy and purpose. She’s passionate about leadership development, business education in veterinary medicine, and building supportive communities for fellow vet students. Her involvement in VBMA has sharpened her business mindset, expanded her professional connections, and boosted her confidence to take on even bigger leadership opportunities.

Looking ahead, Haleigh plans to pursue a career in small animal general practice or urgent care, while continuing to explore theriogenology and practice ownership. Her dream is to own a practice in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and become a mentor who inspires future veterinarians as they navigate school and launch their careers.

When she’s not in class or leading organizations, you’ll find Haleigh relaxing with her pitbull, Zeus, catching up on her favorite shows, traveling, or making fun dancing TikTok videos. She’s a huge basketball fan – especially when it comes to the Memphis Grizzlies and, of course, Ja Morant. She also loves creating unforgettable, laughter-filled moments with her friends.

Haleigh is thrilled to serve as a VBMA Regional Leader for 2026 and can’t wait to continue growing, leading, and making an impact within the VBMA community!

Anais González-Villalobos is a DVM Candidate at St. George’s University, Class of 2027. Originally from Puerto Rico, she earned her bachelor’s degree in Animal Science with a Pre-Veterinary Medicine certificate from the University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez Campus.

Anais first joined the Veterinary Business Management Association (VBMA) to gain a stronger foundation in the veterinary industry and quickly developed a passion for financial literacy, client communication, and the fundamentals of practice ownership. She previously served as the SGU VBMA chapter’s Social Media Manager and was a member of the 2025 Atlantic Regional Summit Marketing Subcommittee, where she collaborated with fellow VBMA leaders to support event branding, outreach, and student engagement.

In addition, Anais serves as a campus ambassador for VETgirl, enjoying the opportunity to help her peers access high-quality continuing education and practical tools that will support them throughout their clinical careers.

Before starting veterinary school, Anais interned at the Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Center and shadowed a wildlife veterinarian in South Africa. These experiences strengthened her interest in combining exotic medicine with small animal practice and shaped her commitment to preventive care and internal medicine.

Outside of academics, Anais enjoys yoga, reading, and spending time in nature—activities that help her stay grounded during the demands of veterinary school.

As a Regional Leader, she is excited to strengthen networking between chapters and enhance the connection between VBMA students and alumni, creating a collaborative community that supports growth, mentorship, and professional development.

Shelby Nelson is a DVM Candidate in the Class of 2027 at Washington State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. Originally from Snohomish, WA, she developed her passion for animals and veterinary medicine through years of participation in 4-H and FFA

Shelby attended Washington State University to earn her Bachelor’s degree in Animal Sciences. After graduation, she took a gap year to work as a small animal veterinary assistant. It was during this time that she discovered a genuine love for small animal medicine, client communication, and the meaningful relationships built between veterinarians, their patients, and their communities.

Upon entering veterinary school, Shelby quickly joined the Veterinary Business Management Association (VBMA) with the goal of strengthening her business knowledge and financial literacy as a future practitioner. When the opportunity arose to serve as the WSU CVM VBMA Vice President, she was thrilled to step into a leadership role. Her experience as VP further inspired her to become a Regional Leader, where she hopes to uplift chapters, build community, and support students in accessing critical business education as they prepare for their careers.

While still exploring the full range of her professional interests, Shelby envisions a future as a small animal veterinarian and is particularly drawn to the fast-paced world of emergency medicine. She hopes to gain strong clinical experience before ultimately pursuing ownership of her own practice.

Outside of veterinary school, Shelby enjoys spending time with her horse, Fonzi, who is boarded just ten minutes from campus. When not at the barn, she loves weightlifting and taking dance classes at the university recreation center. Exercising, along with spending quality time with friends and family, keeps her grounded and balanced throughout her studies.

Shelby is honored to serve as a Regional Leader for the upcoming year and looks forward to connecting with veterinary students and professionals across the nation as they grow, learn, and lead in their own communities.

Alexa Dal Porto is pursuing her lifelong dream as a DVM Candidate in the Class of 2028, participating in the joint South Dakota State University and University of Minnesota 2+2 program. Her passion for veterinary medicine began in childhood, inspired by watching Animal Planet and National Geographic with her grandmother.

Originally from Northern California, Alexa earned her Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from Montana State University in 2024. During her undergraduate studies, she gained extensive hands-on experience through sheep and cattle research projects—including nutritional and vaccine studies—and through practical work at an MSU farm and a small-animal clinic specializing in orthopedic surgery and reproduction.

Recognizing the importance of business acumen in successful veterinary practice ownership, Alexa is deeply engaged in professional development. She currently serves as the 2025–2026 President of the VBMA Chapter at SDSU, Secretary of the AABP Chapter, and as a Student Ambassador for Veterinary Practice Partners (VPP).

Alexa is deeply committed to the VBMA, valuing its robust framework for networking, mentorship, and leadership development. She enjoys engaging with new people and gaining insights into the practical aspects of owning a veterinary clinic, navigating life after graduation, and the strategic process of selecting the right practice. She is enthusiastic about serving as a Regional Leader, where she plans to support chapters in increasing student participation, securing high-quality speakers, and enhancing networking opportunities.

After graduation, Alexa aspires to become a rural veterinarian specializing in small ruminant and beef cattle medicine, with the ultimate goal of owning her own mixed-animal practice and applying the business skills developed through the VBMA. She also has a strong passion for small animal orthopedics and reproduction in both small and large animals. Driven by a genuine passion for the agriculture community, she is committed to supporting the farmers and ranchers who provide essential resources. Outside of her professional pursuits, she leads an active lifestyle—traveling (having visited 14 countries), hiking with her Mini Aussie, Wrangler, snowboarding, and weightlifting.