TARA WOYTON ’01, ’03

inspiring the Next Generation 2020 Veterinary Technician of the Year Tara Woyton ’01, ’03 Finds Fulfillment in Giving Back By Tara Erwin

“Be brave enough to be bad at something.” This maxim is not the first thing you might expect a successful person to say, but it has served as an inspiration for Medaille College adjunct professor and alumna Tara Woyton, MS, LVT, CVT, ’01, ’03. A surprise to no one who has worked with her or learned from her, Woyton was named the 2020 Veterinary Technician of the Year by the New York State Association of Veterinary Technicians (NYSAVT).

NYSAVT, which carries out its mission to advance the licensed veterinary technician profession through education, legislative initiatives, public awareness and member development, bestows this annual honor on a professional who personifies excellence in the field. Woyton’s selection was based upon her legacy of commitment, leadership and contributions to the advancement of licensed veterinary technicians in New York State spanning nearly 20 years.

Woyton says she was stunned when she first received news of the Veterinary Technician of the Year accolade. Even after serving 20 years in the in the field, including a successful tenure at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), her initial reaction was a humble one.

“I have had the pleasure of working with some amazing technicians who have inspired me, including many who have taught at Medaille, like Katie Maley and Lisa Komasara,” she says. “I never thought I would be among the ranks of the technicians who have received this award before me. I did not even consider it as a possibility. It is quite an honor.”

Woyton, who has specialized in large animals her entire career, received both her associate degree in veterinary technology and bachelor’s degree in biology from Medaille. She also holds a master’s degree in deaf and hard of hearing education, which is a milestone that she credits to her hearing impaired uncle who inspired her “to be part of such an awesome community.” Teaching at Medaille, both as a full-time faculty member after she came out of retirement from the USDA and now as an adjunct professor, has given Woyton the opportunity to mentor countless students of all ages. This is something she relishes.

“I love the interaction,” she says. “To be a part of each student’s learning experience is a pleasure. I have made many lasting connections and am honored to be part of their lives, even after they graduate.”

It is clear that Woyton finds fulfillment in sharing her knowledge and experience with others. “I will always have an intern or a student by my side,” she says. “There is something so exciting about people wanting to learn and getting to share in their education.”

In addition to teaching part time, Woyton gives back by doing pro bono work at some farms in the Western New York area, and she volunteers at the Ronald McDonald House, Salvation Army and the Red Cross. Also serving as the chair of the Animal Care Committee for the Erie County Fairgrounds, she has had many of her students accompany her to livestock shows.

Where did this love of animals come from? Woyton credits her parents for instilling in her a strong work ethic and interest in animal welfare. “My father is definitely ‘the match that lit the flame’ and inspired my love of animals, science and the veterinary field,” she says.

Currently, there are no signs of her slowing down after achieving such a momentous honor. “I hope I always want to learn,” she says. “That has been the key to my success in this field, and I think it is so important for everyone. Never stop learning.”