Dr. Holly Brown new President of the Rhode Island Veterinary Medical Association

The long-time veterinarian leads the state’s largest organization supporting veterinary professionals, animal welfare, and public health

The Rhode Island Veterinary Medical Association (RIVMA) has appointed Dr. Holly Brown as its new president. RIVMA is a 250-member association comprised of local veterinarians dedicated to animal welfare and advancing veterinary medicine. Dr. Brown assumed her role at the beginning of January, succeeding Dr. Sarah Mercurio, who completed her term at the end of 2025.

As she begins her term, Dr. Brown has outlined key areas she intends to champion on behalf of the organization.

“In my role as RIVMA president, one of my priorities is advancing legislation that formally recognizes and title-protects veterinary technicians and establishes an alternative pathway to licensure,” said Dr. Brown. “I am committed to continuing RIVMA’s work to support the success of those who serve in this essential role within the veterinary profession.”

Another priority for Dr. Brown during her presidency is to protect Rhode Island veterinarians and their patients by advocating against legislation that would allow telemedicine without a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and opposing measures that would allow the recovery of non-economic damages. “I believe Rhode Island can expand access to veterinary care while maintaining high standards of patient care and professional integrity.”

Supporting and strengthening the RIVMA Companion Animal Foundation (CAF) and its fundraising efforts is also a focus of Dr. Brown’s presidency. Launched in 2024 to help cover the cost of health care and vaccines for pets of low-income owners, the CAF is the charitable arm of RIVMA. It was the first veterinary-based assistance program of its kind established in the United States.

Outside of RIVMA, Dr. Brown is a partner physician at Harbor Animal Hospital in Warren, R.I., and a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, reading, gardening, and knitting. Dr. Brown lives in North Smithfield and shares her home with her son, her fiance, a dog named Merlot, two cats named Sundae and Kirby, and a chinchilla named Miss Jeffrey.