Honored Mentor

Lisa A. Fortier

DVM, PhD, DACVS

Dr. Lisa Fortier has been an advocate for my education and career from veterinary school through graduate studies and she continues to support me during my faculty career. During my time working with her at Cornell, I witnessed her dedicate time to mentor individuals at various stages of their careers, from undergraduates to veterinary students and veterinarians at various stages of training. Dr. Fortier empowers her mentees to develop self-confidence in their knowledge and ability.
- Jennfier Cassano, DVM, PhD

Lisa mentored me all through vet school both in the clinic and in her lab. She was instrumental in guiding me through the process of obtaining a surgical residency and throughout my career thus far.
- Rebecca Barington Hicks, DVM, DACVS (Large Animal)

Lisa’s mentoring throughout my residency has shaped the type of surgeon I am today. Her energy and enthusiasm to teach made it a pleasure to learn from her.
- Michael C. Maher, DVM, DACVS (Large Animal)

Lisa has been an inspiration to all female surgeons. Her strength, courage, and no BS attitude are palpable. And, despite her incredible productivity as a clinician scientist, she never hesitates to champion the work of others.
- Kyla F. Ortved, DVM, PhD, DACVS, DACVSMR

I am a surgeon because of Lisa Fortier. She changed my life!
- Lynn Marie Pezzanite, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVS (Large Animal)

From teaching me as a student through my current status as a surgeon, she has taught me and supported me throughout my career. She always has been and continues to be a wealth of knowledge, experience, and a friend.
- John Pigott, DVM, MS, DACVS (Large Animal)

Lisa has been not only a mentor, but also a colleague, friend, and confidante during my career at Cornell. She is an accomplished surgeon, a collaborative researcher, and an effective leader, and a promoter of all DVMs in her current role as Editor in Chief of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). She is an inspiration to all.
- Heidi L. Reesink, VMD, PhD, DACVS (Large Animal)

Lisa has had an immense impact on my career in all regards. She is a truly exceptional mentor who has gone out of her way to be encouraging and supportive and to do everything possible to guarantee my success. She is an outstanding role model, and I will be forever grateful for all of her advice and guidance.
- Lauren V. Schnabel, DVM, PhD, DACVS (Large Animal)