From Blue Jacket to White Coat: An FFA Alum’s Commitment to Veterinary Service
Dr. Jaclyn Carlson Van Lith, a South Dakota FFA alumna, is a veterinarian.
The FFA Motto
At the heart of FFA lies the motto, “Living to Serve.” This statement reflects the organization’s effort to develop leaders who are dedicated to making a difference in the world. For Dr. Jaclyn Carlson Van Lith (“Dr. Carlson”), the values of leadership, service, and dedication she learned in FFA have been instrumental in her success as a veterinarian.
Dr. Carlson is the owner and veterinarian at Homestead Animal Health in Milbank, SD. There, she offers veterinary acupuncture and care for small animals and equine.
Making a Difference: How Simple Gestures Embody the FFA Motto
Inspired by “living to serve,” Dr. Carlson believes that even small gestures can make someone smile. She said, “As I have aged, it has become clearer to me the importance of being kind. We all have our struggles, so giving one another grace is important in day-to-day interactions.”
Simply complimenting a stranger or holding the door open takes minimal effort but can provide a big difference in someone’s day. Showing kindness and doing small things can make a positive impact on someone’s day and provide a more caring community, which is what living to serve is all about!
Dr. Carlson’s practice offers veterinary acupuncture and care for small animals and equine.
Dr. Carlson’s Dedication to Community and Animals
“It is in my nature to nurture,” she explains. “I use my God-given talents to better the lives of animals and the people that care for them.” Dr. Carlson is grateful to be back in her hometown to give back to the community that helped shape her in her youth.
Her former FFA Advisor Jerry Janisch added, “Jaclyn always had a fondness for horses and equine science. She was on the Milbank FFA horse team and participated at the state FFA convention for several years.”
Eventually, her background with animals directed her to become a veterinarian.
Dr. Carlson’s passion for animal health led her to become a veterinarian.
Serving Through Veterinary Medicine
When asked about what service meant to her in her work, she said, “Every veterinarian takes an oath upon graduation, dedicating themselves to use scientific knowledge for the benefit of society through the protection of animal health and welfare, the prevention and relief of animal suffering, the conservation of animal resources, promotion of public health, and advancement of medical knowledge. It is the living of that oath every day through my work that I serve my community and my profession.”
Dr. Carlson is actively involved in FFA as an alumna, often volunteering in the local chapter and offering support. Through her dedication, Dr. Carlson contributes to a healthier and more compassionate society, truly embodying the spirit of service.
