PVMA 2026 Award Recipients

Veterinarian of the Year:
Dr. Kris Ellingsen
Cat Care Professionals & Feral Cat Coalition of Oregon

Nominated by Dr. Alison Lord– "I came to PDX 24 years ago and have seen many changes in our profession over time. Most of us have cycled through jobs, phased in and out of the field, and adjusted our niches. Few have remained stalwart in their missions, especially ones to provide care for underserved populations such as The Cat. We all know that cats are not small dogs, they are a very unique species, requiring a specialized skill set of patience, delicacy, and continuing education as the academics catch up to knowledge of their needs. The same can be said of their caregivers ;)

Dr. Kris Ellingsen has dedicated herself to this community throughout her career working not just with Cat Care Professionals but also with the Feral Cat Coalition of Oregon (FCCO), tirelessly doing High Quality High Volume Spay Neuter (HQHVSN) surgeries, serving on their board for more than 16 years, and leading as their president for 10 years. I’ve worked alongside Dr. Ellingsen for the majority of these years and even as many would have already planned and entered their retirement by now (sorry Kris!), she perseveres in the care of cats, simply making adjustments in her scheduling. I’ve never seen her appear fatigued or low in spirit, and it’s always a joy to know we’ll be doing surgery together as the upbeat chatter will not cease and we’ll even get the treat of her dulcet singing tones now and then :)

Through these years, I’ve witnessed the acquisition and ultimate losses of her own feline friends and her conscientious and compassionate dedication to their care against many odds has been non-negotiable. She’s not only been my colleague, she’s been my friend, and a mentor. She’s always ready with an answer when I ask about any new and/or controversial options for feline medicine and surgery. And I trust her implicitly if we need to face a surgical decision or complication during our HQHVSN shifts together. I always proclaim that the opportunity to work with FCCO has completely altered, and greatly improved, the trajectory of my career and it’s because of its allies such as Dr. Ellingsen that that has been made possible. She has never expected gratitude or asked for recognition so it’s a terrific honor to nominate her for the PVMA Veterinarian of the Year award on behalf of the entire FCCO cadre."

Veterinary Team Member Award:
Gabe Sasse CVPM

Nominated by Dr. Alyssa Monteith – "I am nominating Gabe Sasse for this award because she deserves recognition for all her hard work. I have known Gabe for less than a year but quickly learned that she cares very much for her team. She is always coming up with new ways to keep our spirits high even when the job gets tiresome, with a constant supply of snacks and even some games and competition.

Gabe is always available to listen to concerns and new ideas. When presented with difficult situations, it is so comforting to know that we have her as a resource and that she will support us. Even outside of the clinic, Gabe encourages us to pursue opportunities to broaden our skillsets and is so helpful at making these opportunities possible. I am very thankful to have her as a part of my team!

Additionally, she is incredibly active in supporting and helping grow practice managers through her work with the OVTAA and specifically as facilitator of the VITAL program. She volunteers to represent and help both the PVMA and OVTAA any chance she gets."

Outstanding Service of the Year Award:
Bird Alliance of Oregon

Nominated by Dr. Lindsay Thurwachter - “Over the past several years, Bird Alliance has navigated extraordinary challenges, including flooding and facility damage, persistent funding shortages, and ongoing staffing constraints. Despite these obstacles, the organization has experienced record numbers of wildlife patients with little to no downtime, remaining at or near capacity throughout the winter months. Through it all, the team consistently shows up for one another, for their volunteers, and for the broader Portland community. Their commitment to education and outreach inspires public engagement and stewardship, even as they compassionately care for animals facing high rates of injury and euthanasia. The dedication, teamwork, and resilience demonstrated by the assistants, technicians, and veterinarians at Bird Alliance exemplify exceptional community service and an unwavering commitment to wildlife care every single day of the year."