Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) has recognized four graduates from the Richard A. Gillespie College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) as part of its 40 Under Forty program, which celebrates young alumni who demonstrate strong leadership, career success and meaningful contributions to their communities.
The LMU 40 Under Forty program recognizes alumni under the age of 40 who are making an impact in their professions and communities. Honorees are selected based on professional achievement, leadership ability, service and the positive influence they bring to their organizations and industries. The recognition also reflects each recipient’s continued connection to LMU and their reputation as leaders in their field.
The program highlights the real-world impact of an LMU education while strengthening alumni engagement and connection across the university community. By sharing their success, LMU aims to inspire current students and encourage young alumni to stay involved and invested in the University’s future.
“LMU’s 40 Under Forty program is a powerful reminder of what our alumni go on to do after they leave our campus,” said Dr. Frank Woodward, Vice President for University Advancement. “These individuals are building meaningful careers, leading with integrity, and making a real difference in the lives of others. What makes this recognition especially meaningful is the connection they continue to have with LMU and the role they play in inspiring the next generation of students.”
Honorees from the LMU-CVM represent a range of industries and leadership roles, demonstrating the breadth and strength of LMU’s academic programs. Their work reflects a commitment to excellence, service and continued growth after graduation.
The following LMU-CVM alumni have been named to LMU’s 40 Under Forty Class of 2026. Their accomplishments highlight the lasting impact of an LMU education, as each continues to lead, innovate and give back in ways that strengthen their professions, communities and the university they call home. Their continued success and connection to LMU reflect a strong and engaged alumni community that supports future generations of students.
Dr. Daniel Doran, DVM ‘22
Dr. Daniel Doran is an accomplished veterinary professional and graduate of Lincoln Memorial University’s College of Veterinary Medicine whose career reflects excellence in clinical care, leadership, education, and service. After earning a Bachelor of Science in biology with a minor in chemistry from Le Moyne College, he completed his veterinary education at LMU and went on to work as a full-time associate veterinarian in a busy Boston practice for more than three years before transitioning to full-time independent relief veterinary practice. Doran now serves as an independent relief veterinarian throughout the Greater Boston area and select regions of Upstate New York and as an adjunct professor of clinical skills at LMU College of Veterinary Medicine. Licensed in both Massachusetts and New York, he remains actively engaged in the profession through membership in the American Veterinary Medical Association, American Association of Industry Veterinarians, LMU College of Veterinary Medicine Alumni Council, and La Salle Institute Alumni Association. His scholarly contributions include published research in Veterinary Parasitology. While at LMU-CVM, Doran served as president of the Student American Veterinary Medical Association chapter and received the college’s Student Leadership Award twice. He continues to support his alma mater as an alumni speaker, most recently addressing the Class of 2027 during the LMU-CVM White Coat Ceremony, and remains active in community service through the Scouts of America and La Salle Institute.
Mariel Hendricks, MVEd ‘24
Mariel Hendricks is an accomplished veterinary professional, educator, and leader whose career spans clinical practice, workforce development, and organizational leadership within the veterinary profession. She serves as chief operations officer and registered veterinary technologist with MentorVet and as a registered veterinary technologist, associate of clinical development, and veterinary technician with Noah’s Animal Hospitals. Hendricks has built extensive expertise in specialty surgery, small animal anesthesia, and clinical training, while also advancing mentorship, education, and well-being initiatives across the profession. She currently serves as president-elect of the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America and as an executive board member of the Association of Veterinary Technician Educators, and has previously held board positions with both NAVTA and the Indiana Veterinary Technician Association. Her contributions to the field have been recognized with the 2026 Dr. Earl Rippie Veterinary Nurse Leadership Award presented by NAVC. A frequent presenter, author, podcast guest, and advocate, Hendricks has published in multiple veterinary technician publications and mentorship resources and is currently co-editing a veterinary technician education textbook scheduled for publication in 2027. Beyond her professional work, she remains committed to supporting both veterinary professionals and mental health initiatives through volunteer service and outreach.
Dr. Jay Miles, MVEd ‘24
Dr. Jay Miles serves as assistant dean for undergraduate programs, program director of the Veterinary Medical Technology Program, assistant professor of veterinary science, and veterinarian at Lincoln Memorial University’s Richard A. Gillespie College of Veterinary Medicine. A licensed veterinarian in Tennessee and Virginia and a United States Department of Agriculture-accredited veterinarian in Virginia, Miles combines clinical expertise with academic leadership to support the education and development of future veterinary professionals. He earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine and a Master of Veterinary Education from Lincoln Memorial University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. Miles is an active member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, Tennessee Veterinary Medical Association, Phi Zeta Veterinary Medicine Honor Society, and Alpha Chi National College Honor Society. He regularly presents at professional conferences and recently published research in the Journal of the Association of Veterinary Technician Educators. Beyond academia, he remains committed to community service through participation in RAM Spay/Neuter Clinics and his role as president of the Lee County Livestock Association.
Dr. Mackenzie Treece, AS-VHS ’17, DVM ‘21
Dr. Mackenzie Treece is a veterinarian, entrepreneur, and owner of Five Rivers Pet Emergency Hospital, where she provides emergency and critical care services while leading the hospital’s continued growth and expansion. Since earning her veterinary credentials in 2021, she has served as a primary care veterinarian, emergency clinician, and hospice and end-of-life care provider through CodaPet, while also working as a relief veterinarian with regional veterinary practices. Under her leadership, Five Rivers Pet Emergency Hospital has expanded to 24/7, year-round operations, tripled its staff size and revenue in three years, and is preparing for a larger facility in early 2026. Treece advanced from relief veterinarian to supervising veterinarian and ultimately hospital owner within a single year, demonstrating exceptional leadership and business acumen. Committed to supporting the next generation of veterinary professionals, she mentors veterinary students from Lincoln Memorial University and the University of Tennessee and regularly volunteers as a speaker during the LMU College of Veterinary Medicine’s Launch Week program.
LMU is proud to recognize these alumni whose achievements continue to strengthen their communities and elevate the University’s legacy. Their ongoing connection to LMU reflects a shared commitment to opportunity, service and student success. The University looks forward to celebrating their continued impact and engaging them in shaping the future of LMU.
To learn more about the LMU 40 Under Forty program and view the full list of honorees, visit https://www.lmunet.edu/giving/40-under-forty-honorees
Lincoln Memorial University is a values-based learning community dedicated to providing educational experiences in liberal arts and professional studies. The main campus is in Harrogate, Tennessee. For more information about the undergraduate and graduate programs available at LMU, contact the Office of Admissions at 423-869-6280 or email at admissions@lmunet.edu.
