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Story contact: Rachel Becker, CVMMarCom@missouri.edu
Photos by Karen Clifford
Growing up in Hawaii, Angelina Johnson was surrounded by a deep sense of community — neighbors who looked out for one another and families who cared as much for their animals as they did one another. That spirit shaped how she sees veterinary medicine: not just as a science, but as a way to strengthen the bond between people and animals they love.
Johnson didn’t just dream of becoming a veterinarian. She built her path with quiet determination. She chose to learn from the ground up, working alongside patients and their families, seeing firsthand the hope, heartbreak and healing that happen every day in veterinary care. Those experiences taught her patience, empathy and the power of small acts of compassion, lessons that continue to guide her as she works toward her DVM.
When it came time to take the next step, Johnson made another brave choice: to leave her island home and begin a new chapter at Mizzou. The university’s strong reputation, 2+2 model and financial accessibility appealed to her practical side, but what truly convinced her was something less tangible — the warmth she felt when she stepped on campus and saw a community that shared her values.
“I knew Mizzou was where I wanted to be, so I made a plan,” Johnson said. “I moved to Missouri early so I could work at the Veterinary Health Center, gain more experience and qualify for in-state tuition. It was the best of both worlds — I got to grow as a technician and prepare for vet school at the same time.”
Growth and preparation
At the Veterinary Health Center, Johnson worked on the small animal anesthesia service, gaining hands-on experience and a firsthand look at the college’s teaching animal hospital. Side by side with third- and fourth-year students, she caught a glimpse of her future: the confidence, compassion and collaboration that define the heart of veterinary medicine.
“Working alongside the students gave me a new perspective,” Johnson said. “I was teaching them technical skills, and I was also learning from their questions and problem-solving. It helped me grow in ways I didn’t expect.”
That time gave her more than technical experience. It built familiarity with the campus and faculty and gave her confidence to step into veterinary school ready to lead.
“Angelina came to veterinary school with an exceptional foundation,” said John Dodam, DVM, PhD, DACVAA, hospital director and chair of the Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery. “Her experience as an anesthesia technician gave her practical skills, organization and drive, but what really sets her apart is her thoughtfulness and sense of responsibility. She approaches challenges from multiple angles and makes decisions with care and insight — qualities that make her not only an outstanding student, but a future leader in the profession.”
Johnson with John Dodam, DVM, PhD, DACVAA, hospital director and chair of the Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery. “The mentorship I have received from faculty at Mizzou has been transformative,” Johnson said. “I am committed to supporting future veterinary professionals and helping them discover their own passions in this profession, just as my mentors have done for me.”
Leading with purpose
Dodam’s confidence in Johnson’s potential is easy to see. Since joining the College of Veterinary Medicine, she’s been elected class president, earned multiple scholarships and found many ways to support and connect her peers.
For Johnson, it’s not about titles or recognition. It’s about building trust and lifting others up.
“I’ve learned that leadership can look different in every situation,” she said. “Sometimes it’s about taking charge, but more often it’s about listening, helping others succeed and knowing when to step in. Mizzou is giving me opportunities to do that.”
Now, as she looks to the future, Johnson hopes to continue leading through teaching and community outreach, sharing what she has learned to strengthen both animal and human health.
“Veterinary medicine gives me a chance to serve in the most meaningful way I know,” she said. “Mizzou is giving me the tools, the confidence and the community to make that possible.” Johnson’s story reflects what Mizzou does best: helping students turn compassion into action and purpose into lifelong impact.
