Kimberley Kirchner
Dr. Kimberley Kirchner is a dedicated small animal veterinarian currently practicing Emergency and Urgent Care medicine at a 24/7 specialty and referral hospital. With a foundation in general practice, she brings a deep commitment to high-quality patient care, transparency, and client communication. Her work focuses on treating critically ill patients, managing complex cases, and supporting the broader veterinary team through servant leadership and mentorship.
Driven by a passion for leadership and innovation within the veterinary field, Dr. Kirchner is currently pursuing her MBA at The Johns Hopkins University – Carey Business School. Her goal is to integrate cross-industry strategies into veterinary medicine, ultimately expanding her impact beyond clinical practice. With a focus on organizational leadership and strategic innovation, she aims to help reshape the future of veterinary care while fostering supportive and sustainable work environments.
Beyond the clinic, Dr. Kirchner is a dedicated mentor and career coach, supporting students and professionals at all stages of their careers. She regularly attends and contributes to leadership-focused veterinary conferences, such as the AVMA Veterinary Leadership Conference. Energized by collaboration and inspired by progress, Dr. Kirchner continues to advocate for thoughtful, people-centered growth in veterinary medicine.
• The Johns Hopkins University- Carey Business School
• Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to following my passion. I've always been guided by a deep commitment to serving others, and that sense of purpose has shaped every step of my journey. Whether in education, nonprofit work, or social services, staying true to what drives me has opened doors, fueled my resilience, and allowed me to create meaningful impact along the way.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received was, “If you do your homework, you can do anything.” It’s a simple reminder that preparation is power. No matter how big the goal or challenge, doing the work—researching, learning, and staying ready—gives you the confidence and tools to succeed.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
The advice I would give to young women entering this industry is the same advice that’s guided me: If you do your homework, you can do anything. Be prepared, stay curious, and never stop learning. I’d also encourage them to follow their passion unapologetically—don’t let the opinions of others steer you away from what truly inspires you. Trust yourself, stay focused, and carve out the path that feels right for you.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in the field right now is the rising cost of care, which limits access for those who need it most. It's disheartening to witness cases where individuals or families are struggling, not because help isn’t available, but because it’s not affordable. On a deeper level, the emotional and moral weight of some cases can be incredibly heavy—especially when you're working with people in heartbreaking situations. At the same time, these challenges present an opportunity to advocate for systemic change and to lead with compassion in a space that desperately needs it.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Trust and transparency are the values I hold most closely in both my work and personal life. I believe that meaningful relationships—whether with clients, colleagues, or loved ones—are built on honesty and open communication. In my professional role, maintaining transparency helps foster accountability, while trust allows for collaboration and stronger outcomes. These values guide how I show up every day, both personally and professionally.