FAREWELL TO Dr. Lista

Jillian Sinclair | Marketing Specialist Florida Veterinary Medical Association

Dr. Marta Lista officially handed over the title of FVMA president to Dr. Jaqueline S. Shellow at the 2023 FVMA Annual Conference and transitioned to the past president position. She originally became involved with the FVMA when the FVMA helped to stop tax-funded veterinary facilities from being built in Miami where Dr. Lista lives and practices. Together, they implemented a plan that still exists 10 years later, where existing, privately-owned veterinary hospitals are funded to provide veterinary care. She continued to lobby in Tallahassee on behalf of the FVMA and served as District 6 Representative for six years.

Her Goals

One of Dr. Lista’s goals for her presidency was to advocate for mothers working in the veterinary industry. As a mother herself, she is passionate about highlighting the challenges of having a veterinary career while having young children.

“It’s a challenge. Working moms basically have two full-time jobs – raising their children and being a veterinarian. I wanted to bring to light the challenges we go through.”

Thanks to Dr. Lista, FVMA Annual Conference 2023 offered child care for all attendees this year. She wanted working mothers to be able to attend the conference and fully participate without worrying about their children.

Another cause Dr. Lista wanted to focus on during her presidency was establishing committees within the FVMA. She feels it is important for FVMA members to be involved with the association and be able to voice their opinions and ideas through committees. When asked what she was most proud of accomplishing during her time serving as president Dr. Lista said,

“We were able to enhance our involvement with the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, including establishing scholarships. This was very near and dear to my heart because UF is our state school and where I attended. Having a good relationship with the school and its students is extremely important to me.”

Dr. Lista also worked to expand the FVMA Legislative Committee, which recently attended FVMA’s Legislative Action Days in Tallahassee. They advocated for several bills that affect veterinary medicine that are being voted on this year.

The Next Step

Now that Dr. Lista has transitioned to the past president position, she will begin working with the FVMA Foundation.

“They’re not getting rid of me yet! I’ll be leading the Foundation now. My goal is for the Foundation to become more involved with community projects that members are a part of. I’d love to see it help our members throughout the state.”