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September 8, 2006 Heidi Butler, 610-861-5453

Local Veterinary Technician Graduates Excel on National Exam

Students who graduated this past May from the veterinary technician program sponsored by Northampton and Lehigh Carbon community colleges achieved a 100% pass rate on the national board examination administered in June. The program’s overall pass rate for this exam over the last eight years is 94%, well above the average national pass rate of 79%.

Members of the Class of 2006 not only excelled academically, but they made significant contributions to the community through the services of the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America Club, according to Dr. Susan Stadler, the veterinarian who directs the program. “I am very proud of the hard work and dedication of the members of the Class of 2006 that allowed them these wonderful accomplishments. They will be competent, compassionate veterinary nurses and the profession should be pleased to welcome them," Stadler commented.

The veterinary technician program sponsored by NCC and LCCC is the first in the country to be founded and operated jointly by two community colleges. Close to 100 students have completed the course of study which is fully accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association.

Veterinary technician students are taught by practicing vets. Classes are supplemented by lab experience, including an intensive summer externship. During this externship, students have the opportunity to work in two different veterinary settings, where they work with small, large and exotic animals. The program focuses on companion animals, with emphasis on exotic species.

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