Sarah Holliday becomes new BVNA president
“I believe this theme showcases the holistic nature of RVNs. We embed compassion in every part of our roles and it is at the heart of all we do." Sarah Holliday.
Sarah Holliday DipVN VTS(Oncology) NCert(Behaviour) RVN has been officially named as the British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA) president for 2025-2026.
She made her inaugural speech at the recent BVNA Congress, where she revealed her presidential theme of ‘compassion and empathy’.
Ms Holliday has worked as a registered veterinary nurse since 2008, taking on a variety of clinical and non-clinical roles in both primary care and referral settings. She is currently a senior oncology nurse at a large referral hospital.
As president, Ms Holliday says she will prioritise ‘listening’ to the voice of veterinary nurses. She has said she will ensure veterinary nurses are “recognised, respected and represented” in veterinary clinics, the wider profession and in society.
She said: “I believe this theme showcases the holistic nature of RVNs. We embed compassion in every part of our roles and it is at the heart of all we do.
“My vision is that this theme enables us to highlight the impact veterinary nurses have on our patients, their families and those within the profession. I am sure we all have an example of when a veterinary nurse’s compassion has made a real difference to someone’s life.”
Following her two-year term as BVNA president, Lyndsay Hughes RVN now steps into the role of BVNA senior vice president.
Ms Hughes reflected on the ongoing issues in the veterinary nursing sector, including the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) and the proposed reform of the Veterinary Surgeons Act.
Ms Hughes said: “[BVNA has] worked tirelessly to represent you on national platforms, in discussions with policymakers, and in partnership with other veterinary organisations. We have continued to push forward initiatives on mental health and wellbeing, professional recognition, and career development.”
The BVNA Congress also saw Jane More, who was president of the BVNA from 1998 to 1999, awarded an honorary membership to the BVNA. Ms More has worked in the veterinary profession for over 50 years, and served nine years on the BVNA council.
The rest of this year’s BVNA Officer team includes junior vice president Steph Worsley RVN, honorary secretary Nikki McLeod RVN and honorary treasurer Hamish Morrin RVN.
Image © BVNA
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