Kim Byrne, pictured above with dog, Rio, is the practice manager at Veterinary Medicine South Clinic.
When did you begin working at the College of Veterinary Medicine?
I will be starting my 19th year at Vet Med this June. I graduated from technician school almost 20 years ago.
Describe your role at the college.
I am currently the practice manager at the South Clinic. This role has me doing a little bit of everything. I strive for our clients to have the best possible experience with their pets. I have Human Resource responsibilities including being in charge of the Customer Service Representatives. When needed, I love to still work with the animals that come into the clinic. Since I have been at the college for a while, I am the “go to” for staff who have questions and concerns. If I don’t know the answer, I can guide them in the right direction. Overall, I make sure that the operation of the clinic runs smoothly.
Have you held any previous titles or responsibilities at the college?
I was previously a Certified Veterinary Technician in the Zoological Medicine department for 16 years.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part is collaborating with really intelligent, kind co-workers. I feel lucky to work with a team that values and respects my ideas.
Complete this sentence: My most memorable day at work was…
…working with a really, really big tiger named Jenny.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I like reading, exercising, and going to concerts with my friends.
What is something your co-workers may be surprised to know about you?
This is hard, I’m pretty much an open book. In my younger years, I worked in a bakery decorating cakes.
What is one thing on your bucket list?
I would love to go on an African Safari.
Do you have a favorite restaurant or place in the Champaign/Urbana area?
Monical’s and Panera. I also love going to movies and getting a LARGE popcorn!
Aside from necessities, what one thing could you not go a day without?
A hug from my handsome guinea pig, Big Papi.
Do you have any pets?
Four: Two cats, one dog, and one guinea pig.
