05/20/2026
The biggest moment at the Kentucky Derby this year wasn’t just the finish line. It was what the moment represented.
👉🏾 History was made with the first female trainer to win the Kentucky Derby.
👉🏾 Puerto Rican jockey José Ortiz reminded people that Latin American culture and talent have long been woven into the foundation of horse racing.
👉🏾 Somewhere, a young person watched the Derby and saw themselves.
That matters far beyond sports. Representation shapes how people see a profession — and whether they can feel they belong.
Veterinary medicine is no different.
When people feel seen, respected, supported, and connected to the communities around them, the profession becomes stronger from the inside out.
Stronger workplace culture leads to:
✔ deeper team trust
✔ stronger client relationships
✔ healthier workplace environments
✔ better patient care
And that starts with belonging.