THE NEXT COHORT
2026-2027 Support group CYCLE
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Following the continued success of our first two cohorts, the VOE-Network is excited to launch the next phase of our Support Group Program. The application deadline for Cohort #3 has been extended to May 15, 2026!
This members-only opportunity offers a safe, confidential space for animal healthcare professionals to connect in small groups, share openly, and support one another through real-world challenges. Participants meet monthly to explore topics such as leadership, burnout, communication, and personal development—all grounded in empathy, trust, and shared experience. We encourage anyone interested in building meaningful connections and finding support within this community to apply. |
Here’s what past participants had to say: "It was great to have a safe place to meet with other individuals with a passion for animal care and leading people! Sharing successes and failures helped me feel not so alone!" "I found this group to be one of the highlights to the last 12 months in my professional life. It felt really good to hear, help and receive help from several colleagues in the industry." "This support group is a great opportunity to share ideas, ask questions, and receive support from others within the field. I enjoy how everyone asks for updates on previous conversations and also provide honest feedback. This is true peer support and was worthwhile!" |
WHAT TO EXPECT
How the program works
After a highly successful pilot, the Support Group Program continues into its next phase with the same core values that made it meaningful.
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📅Monthly Meetings
Small groups meet virtually once a month with consistent members throughout the full cycle for real continuity and trust. 💬 Real-world topics
Leadership, burnout, communication, and personal development — discussed with honesty, care, and genuine peer support. |
🔒Confidential
A private space built on trust, empathy, and shared experience. Everything shared within the group stays within the group. 🐾 Built for this community
Designed specifically for animal healthcare professionals who truly understand your everyday world and challenges. |
2026-2027 FACILITATORS
Meet this year's facilitators
Mary Spencer
I'm a values-driven leader passionate about building cultures of trust, collaboration, and continuous improvement. As Senior Manager of Administration and Engagement at Brigham and Women's Hospital's Center for Comparative Medicine, I lead at the intersection of operational excellence and people-first leadership—making an impact on both the systems that drive our work and the people who bring those systems to life. I oversee billing, financial management, vendor relations, and animal procurement—ensuring the financial integrity and operational efficiency that enables cutting-edge biomedical research. I partner with leadership on strategic planning and budget allocation, leading initiatives that streamline workflows and create better experiences for our team and the investigators we serve. As Chair of our Employee Engagement Committee, I foster belonging, recognition, and psychological safety across our organization. As President of the Vivarium Operational Excellence Network (VOE-N), I support our field on a national scale through community building, knowledge sharing, and collaboration. I am proud to bring heart, structure, and deep respect for people to every challenge—motivated by meaningful impact and committed to leading with both excellence and empathy. |
Lisa Antonucci
My name is Lisa Antonucci, and I have been working in the animal science field for over 40 years. Throughout my career, I have held various positions, including animal technician, facility manager, and now assistant director of animal operations. I have had the opportunity to work in both academia and industry, gaining valuable experience in managing and directing animal facilities.
My expertise lies in the care and management of a diverse range of animals, including rodents, large mammals, reptiles, and fish. Currently, I hold a global role overseeing all vivarium on both the New Brunswick and Newark campuses at Rutgers University. In this position, I am responsible for ensuring that all animal facilities operate at the highest standards and that all personnel are trained, motivated, and working effectively to provide the best possible animal care. Throughout my career, I have demonstrated my leadership skills, by providing guidance and support to supervisors and ensuring that all personnel are working towards a common goal. I am proud to have built a reputation as a skilled and knowledgeable professional in the animal science field. respected by my colleagues and clients for my expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to quality. |
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LEARN MORE
Program Resources
Curious about the program? These documents explain how the groups work and what to expect as a participant.
Not a member yet? Join the VOE-Network today to access this and other exclusive programs.
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