During Lincoln Memorial University's (LMU) Homecoming festivities on October 12, Mary Hatfield, AS, BS, M.Ed., LVMT, LAT, was honored with the inaugural Randy Evans Veterinary Medical Technology Merit Award. This prestigious award recognizes outstanding professional achievements by a graduate of LMU’s Veterinary Medical Technology (VMT) program and was established by the administration of the LMU-Richard A. Gillespie College of Veterinary Medicine (LMU-CVM) in 2024.
Named after Dr. Randy Evans, who served as the VMT program director from 1989 to 2009, the award celebrates graduates who have made significant contributions in areas such as education, government, industry, clinical practice, or other professional fields within veterinary medicine.
Hatfield has been a pillar in the LMU VMT program since its inception. Hatfield received both her Associate of Science in Veterinary Medical Technology and MEd from LMU. She served as the founding Veterinary Technology Program coordinator from 1986 to 2008 and later as the program director from 2009 to 2015. Hatfield’s dedication to veterinary medicine extends beyond the classroom; she has served as the Tennessee State Representative for the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America for 15 years and has been a member of the executive board of the Tennessee Veterinary Technician Association for over two decades. Currently, she works at Union County Animal Hospital in Maynardville, Tennessee.
In addition to her professional roles, Hatfield is a devoted advocate for animal welfare. As an executive board member of the Animal Welfare League of Claiborne County, she has written and secured multiple grants for spay and neuter programs benefiting low-income residents of the Appalachian region. Her efforts have improved the lives of both animals and the community.
"Mary has dedicated her career to advancing the field of veterinary technology and improving the lives of animals, students, and colleagues alike," said LMU-CVM Dean Stacy Anderson, DVM, PhD, DACVS-LA . "Her commitment to the welfare of animals and her tireless advocacy for the profession exemplify the values we honor with this award."
Hatfield is renowned for her ability to inspire students and coworkers alike, using positive reinforcement to help them grow in their professional skills. The LMU-CVM also acknowledges the contributions of her family—her husband, Henry, and her son, Matt—who have supported the Veterinary Medical Technology Program over the years.
The Randy Evans Veterinary Medical Technology Merit Award celebrates professionals like Hatfield who make a difference in both the veterinary field and their local communities.
Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) is a values-based learning community dedicated to providing educational experiences in liberal arts and professional studies. The LMU-Richard A. Gillespie College of Veterinary Medicine is located on LMU’s main campus in Harrogate, Tennessee, with additional academic facilities in nearby Lee County, Virginia. LMU-CVM is an integral part of the University’s medical programs and provides real-world, community-based education in a collaborative learning environment. For more information about LMU-CVM, call 1.800.325.0900, ext. 6600 or visit us online at vetmed.LMUnet.edu.
