Care, Compassion & Community: Inside JJC’s Vet Tech Program
In the premiere episode of season two of the JJC Alumni podcast, host Jen Davis welcomes alumna Abby Panozzo, program director for the Veterinary Medical Technology program at JJC and a devoted animal lover. The episode explores Abby's own journey from a JJC student to a seasoned veterinary technician and educator. Abby shares memorable experiences from her time at JJC, her transition from clinical practice to teaching, and her commitment to mental health advocacy in the veterinary field. Additionally, the episode highlights the significance of community support in enhancing educational and animal care programs at JJC, including initiatives like the VTNE Fund and the Vinny B. Motika Memorial Scholarship. The episode concludes with advice for new students and information on how to sponsor or adopt animals from the JJC program.
Creators and Guests
Host
Jen Davis
Jen Davis currently serves as the Director of Institutional Advancement and Alumni Relations at Joliet Junior College. A former English instructor, she has spent more than two decades in higher education, supporting students at various stages of their academic and professional journeys. In her leadership role, Jen oversees initiatives that strengthen connections between JJC and its alumni, fostering engagement and building lasting relationships. Her responsibilities include strategic planning for alumni outreach, organizing small and large-scale events, managing annual giving campaigns, and collaborating across departments to create meaningful opportunities for alumni involvement.
Guest
Abby Panozzo
Abby Panozzo, CVT, has been working in the veterinary medical field for 28 years and is a proud 2002 graduate of the Joliet Junior College Veterinary Medical Technology Program—where she now serves as Program Director. Her career has been shaped by a lifelong connection to animals and a deep passion for small animal nursing. Whether in practice or the classroom, Abby is driven by a commitment to honoring and protecting the human-animal bond—recognizing the emotional connection people share with their pets and the responsibility veterinary professionals have to nurture it. Abby holds advanced certifications in Low-Stress Handling and is a Fear Free Certified Professional – Elite Status, helping ensure every patient is treated with empathy and respect. She believes that high- quality care doesn’t just come from skill, but from kindness, communication, and trust. As an educator, Abby brings real-world experience, warmth, and encouragement into every learning space. She’s proud to lead the very program that launched her own career and is passionate about preparing students to be not only knowledgeable and capable technicians, but also thoughtful, compassionate advocates for animals. For Abby, veterinary medicine is more than a profession—it’s a purpose rooted in connection and lifelong learning.
Producer
Amanda Quinn
Amanda Quinn serves as the Executive Director of the Joliet Junior College Foundation and Executive Director of Institutional Advancement, a role she assumed in January 2026. Throughout her career at JJC, she has held several key positions including Grant Writer, Annual Giving and Alumni Relations Manager, and Director of Institutional Advancement, giving her a deep understanding of the college’s philanthropic priorities and partnerships. With more than 15 years of experience in fundraising, communications, and marketing, Amanda leads philanthropic engagement strategies that advance student success. Her strategic vision, strong donor relationships, and commitment to JJC’s mission continue to drive the college’s growth and impact.
