Dr. Gary Marshall, Vice President of the American Veterinary Medical Association, joins Dr. Andy Roark for a conversation about how veterinarians can build authentic connections across generations. As Andy reflects on his own career legacy, he turns to Gary, who has become a trusted mentor to many, to explore how curiosity, listening, and shared experiences create lasting professional relationships. Together they discuss what makes mentorship meaningful, how to engage younger veterinarians without lecturing, and why being genuinely interested in others leads to stronger teams and a more connected profession. This episode is filled with practical wisdom and heartfelt insight for anyone who wants to make a positive impact in veterinary medicine. Let’s get into this episode!
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LINKS
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ABOUT OUR GUEST
Dr. Gary Marshall is a 1989 graduate of the Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine, has owned two small animal clinics, and is the founder of Island Cats Veterinary Hospital, a feline-exclusive practice on Mercer Island.
Dr. Marshall’s advocacy journey began in veterinary school when he served as SCAVMA President at Washington State University. Dr. Marshall is a past president of the Washington State Veterinary Medical Association (WSVMA) and served on its board of directors. He concluded his regular clinical duties at Island Cats and his service on the WSVMA board to commit to his role as AVMA vice president.
His service within the AVMA began in 2016 when he was elected to the American Veterinary Medical Foundation Board of Directors. He held the position of vice chair prior to the board restructuring. Dr. Marshall was selected to serve as Washington State’s alternate delegate to the AVMA House of Delegates beginning in 2020. He also has served on the board of the Women’s Veterinary Leadership Development Initiative.
Mentorship has been a key priority for Dr. Marshall in recent years. In addition to organic mentorship relationships with dozens of employees who have gone on to pursue DVM degrees, he connects with veterinary students who seek clinical training at Island Cats. He also participates in multiple organized mentorship programs. Dr. Marshall has developed extensive connections with students and student groups over the years. These have led to speaking opportunities at several veterinary schools, SAVMA Symposium, and the delivery of a commencement address.
Dr. Marshall was selected to receive an American Animal Hospital Association Visionary Award, as well as a Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine Distinguished Alumni Service Award.
Outside of his professional work, he enjoys getting to all the corners of the Pacific Northwest to hone his landscape photography skills, and during the winter he participates in a local curling league. Dr. Marshall is married to a veterinary school classmate and has two grown children. He and his wife share their home with a senior cat, Millicent Cloudberry (Millie).
