Hospital Staff - Office Staff

Practice manager Kerry Meredith has been a member of the Cherokee Animal Clinic staff since 1988. Helping pets and their owners on a daily basis is a rewarding experience that Kerry highly cherishes. A devoted wife and mother of an adult son, Kerry loves to read, cook and bake and enjoys shooting pool and going to KU basketball games in her spare time. She shares her home with a Doberman named Ramses and a leopard gecko named Mimi.

Hilary VanderVelde is the office manager at Cherokee Animal Clinic. The hospital is her home away from home and she likes being part of a team that's focused on educating clients and providing the best veterinary care for pets. Sailing, kayaking, camping and spending time with family and friends are among her many hobbies. She shares her home with her dogs, Ponch and Allie, and a turtle named Snappy.

Receptionist Joan Altieri joined the Cherokee Animal Clinic staff in 2007. She has always wanted to work at a veterinary clinic and loves working with the caring staff each day. A member of the Humane Society of the United States and the ASPCA, Joan shares her home with two dogs, Sarah and Tarby. She enjoys hanging out with her three sons, her grandchildren, and her dogs in her spare time, and also likes reading, cooking and sports.

Receptionist Angie Gruenfelder joined the Cherokee family in 2012. She has always had an interest and fondness for animals, and loves working closely with clients who share the same fondness. Outside of the clinic, Angie is involved in theater and music. She shares her home with her old man cat, Frisky, and a lab/collie mix named Leroy.

Jenny Nguyen joined Cherokee's front office staff in January of 2013. She is an avid runner and shares her home with her two dogs, Sox, a Shetland Sheepdog, and Macho Nacho, a Chihuauhua mix. She is glad to have found a position in which she can share her love of both pets and working with the public.

The most recent addition to Cherokee's reception staff is Taylor Modic. She shares her home with two Red Heelers, Hoss and Chancey. When not working, Taylor likes to spend her time outdoors either camping or lounging by the pool or lake. "It's great working with people who are so passionate towards animals and I am very grateful to be a part of this team."