Sarah Kokernot
Vice President of Meetings and Events
Professional Overview
Sarah Kokernot is an experienced events and meetings management professional with a strong track record of driving successful outcomes for the Veterinary Emergency & Critical Care Society (VECCS). As the Vice President of Meetings and Events, she leverages her expertise in conference planning, stakeholder engagement, and operational efficiency to elevate the organization's premier industry events.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Vice President of Meetings and Events at VECCS, Sarah is responsible for overseeing the planning, coordination, and execution of the society's annual conferences, workshops, and member gatherings. She leads a team of event specialists in managing all logistical aspects, from venue selection and budgeting to speaker coordination and attendee experience. Under her leadership, VECCS has consistently delivered high-quality, impactful events that foster knowledge-sharing, networking, and professional development within the veterinary emergency and critical care community.
Career Progression
Prior to her current role, Sarah served as the Director of Meetings and Events at VECCS, where she played a pivotal role in streamlining event operations and enhancing participant engagement. She also held positions in association management and corporate sales, honing her skills in client relationship management, event marketing, and strategic planning. Sarah's diverse background and commitment to continuous improvement have been instrumental in driving the organization's events to new heights.
Academic Background
Sarah holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Texas at San Antonio, with a focus on Accounting. Her academic achievements reflect her analytical mindset and attention to detail, attributes that have been invaluable in her events management career.
Areas of Expertise
- Comprehensive event planning and execution
- Stakeholder coordination and relationship management
- Budget development and financial oversight
- Venue selection and vendor management
- Marketing and promotional strategy
- Team leadership and process optimization
Professional Impact
Under Sarah's leadership, VECCS has consistently delivered highly successful annual conferences, with each event attracting record-breaking attendance and positive feedback from participants. She has spearheaded innovative initiatives, such as the implementation of a mobile event app and the introduction of interactive networking sessions, which have enhanced the overall conference experience. Sarah's contributions have been instrumental in positioning VECCS as a premier destination for veterinary professionals to connect, learn, and advance their practices.
Conclusion
With her extensive experience, strategic vision, and unwavering commitment to excellence, Sarah Kokernot is a valuable asset to the Veterinary Emergency & Critical Care Society. As she continues to elevate the organization's events and meetings, she remains focused on driving sustainable growth, fostering deeper engagement with the veterinary community, and delivering exceptional experiences that position VECCS as a leader in the industry.