OUR VALUES

What we stand for

The VOE-Network's strength has always been rooted in the diversity of its members. These principles guide everything we do.

01

OUR PHILOSOPHY

OpEx is based on the inclusion of human differences — age, ethnicity, gender identity, race, ability, sexual orientation, social class, and the many other dimensions that make each of us unique.

02

WE STRIVE

To include all people in promoting innovative methods and knowledge for managing animal healthcare programs — no exceptions, no exclusions.

03

​WE BELIEVE

That all people are to be treated with the utmost respect and dignity, regardless of our differences. 

We are all in this together.

     The diversity of those three individuals—Steve Niemi, Sai Tummala, and myself—is worth noting, because everything about our brainstorming was about the content of our ideas and not the color of our skin… As an African-American woman who understands the personal toll of racism, I wanted to acknowledge that the origin of the VOEN was grounded in equality and inclusion from the very start. Resolving these inequities will require continuous attention and adjustment. It's time for a change."

— Donna Matthews Jarrell, VOE-N Founding Member & First President
​(June 11, 2020)

DR DONNA MATTHEWS JARRELL SCHOLARSHIP

Honoring a visionary, investing in the next generation

An annual scholarship to the National AALAS conference, supporting emerging animal healthcare professionals from HBCUs.

About the scholarship

In recognition of the fearless and pioneering spirit of our founder — who has championed Continuous Improvement in Animal Healthcare around the globe — the VOE-Network honors her legacy through this annual award. Donna's commitment to inclusion expanded the network's reach to include Historically Black Colleges and Universities as developmental partners, helping to elevate people of color in the field.

Fundraising goal

$10K

Help us sustain the DMJ Scholarship Fund

View scholarship details

Donate to the fund

Past scholarship recipients

2023

Peyton Mitchell

Lab Animal Husbandry Professional · Morgan State University

2024

Dr. Terrance Platt

Assistant Director · Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine

2025

Addison Bonner

Senior Animal Science Student · North Carolina A&T State University

📣Applications for 2026 open on April 15th. Watch this space or follow us on LinkedIn for updates.