All children grow up with childhood heroes. But it takes real commitment to live up to the ideals and aspirations of the people you once idolized.

For Dr. Niccole Bruno, it was Rosa Parks who first sparked that fire. Born on the same day – December 1st – that the legendary civil rights activist bravely stood up to racial inequality, Niccole and Rosa also share something else in common: the belief that we all play a role in making the world a better place.

Niccole Bruno explains:

“As an adult I have learned more of the history of the civil rights. But I still honor Ms. Parks because when we want to invoke change, we ALL must be a part of the solution.”

Vet Candy couldn’t agree more!

We sat down with Dr. Niccole to learn about how BLEND, a veterinary hospital certification program, is bringing diversity, equity, and inclusion training to veterinary hospitals everywhere.

Why Do We Need to BLEND as Veterinarians?

Dr. Niccole wears many hats. Mom. Wife. Veterinarian. CEO.

Additionally, she is the proud founder of BLEND. Originally from Queens, New York, Bruno attended Cornell University School of Veterinary Medicine. Texas is home now, but through BLEND, Dr. Niccole’s reach extends far and wide across the realm of veterinary medicine.

So, what is BLEND exactly? 

Let’s break it down. BLEND stands for build, lead, educate, navigate, and diversify.

In her own words,Dr. Nicole elaborates, “BLEND is a veterinary hospital certification program that is getting back to the heart of veterinary medicine. Its people. It is an opportunity to combine diversity, equity and inclusion training with wellness to help veterinary teams understand their own journey, learn together, honor their differences and create an environment of belonging.”

Unfortunately, racism, misogyny, and damaging stereotypical behaviors are still shockingly present in the workplace…vet med included.

In fact, veterinary medicine was dubbed the “whitest” profession in America in 2013. More than 96.5% of vets identified as white. Since then, there have been astounding contributions made by BIPOC (black, Indigenous, and people of color) to dismantle systemic racism in the field. Yet more still needs to be done. Especially considering 80% of employees prefer employers who prioritize DEI.

Therefore, hospitals need to take a good long look in the mirror and ask themselves, “Are we doing enough?”

The good news is everybody can participate in DEI initiatives at work!

“Every team member contributes to the culture of the practice and should understand the weight of that assignment as it impacts how we show up for work every day,” Bruno says. “BLEND certified hospitals will also create their own customized blueprint as each hospital has unique needs and barriers they must overcome. Starting with the heart of our industry, its people, will help to create an empathy that is transferable to how we engage with our communities. We can then use BLEND certified veterinary hospitals to improve pipeline development through exposure and mentorship and access to care.”

This means improved employee wellbeing, stronger veterinary-client-patient relationships, better retention of diverse talent, fewer barrier for new graduates, and so much more!

Your Purpose, Your Way

Dr. Niccole is one of the lucky ones.

She found her calling. Everyday, she gets to wake up and pursue her passions supported by folks who feel the same.

For all veterinarians out there, she has the following message:

“Life defines you. Every high and low moment will shape you into the person you are meant to be. Trust the process, be courageous and seek company of people who bring you joy.”

Thanks Dr. Niccole for your advice, hard work, and dedication to advancing our profession!