Paws and profits: A research leader joins Texas Tech, a veterinary receptionist association appoints an executive director, and a practice group names a new CEO

A livestock geneticist and experienced research administrator will join a major university's leadership team this summer. Meanwhile, a professional association dedicated to veterinary receptionists has appointed its first executive director to lead strategic expansion and advocacy, and a veterinary support organization has promoted its longtime president and chief operating officer (COO) to CEO. Continue reading to learn more about each of these individuals.

James Reecy, PhD, vice president for research and innovation, Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University has named James Reecy, PhD, as vice president for research and innovation, effective July 1. A seasoned livestock geneticist and bioinformatician, Reecy joins Texas Tech from Iowa State University, where he served as associate vice president for research since 2017. There, he oversaw a research enterprise exceeding $466 million in annual expenditures and facilitated more than $230 million in annual federal funding.

He also served as director of the Office of Biotechnology at Iowa State and rose through the faculty ranks to professor of animal science. Reecy holds a doctorate in animal science from Purdue University and a certificate in management and leadership in education from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. In his new role, he will work to strengthen Texas Tech's national research competitiveness and support interdisciplinary collaboration, the school said.

"Texas Tech has a vibrant culture of discovery and a clear commitment to excellence," Reecy said in a university news release.¹ "I look forward to working alongside the faculty, staff and students to foster a collaborative environment that not only drives innovation but also translates our research into meaningful solutions for Texas and the world."

Judy Rose Lanier, CVPM, CVA, VEMM, executive director, NAAVR

The North American Association of Veterinary Receptionists (NAAVR) has appointed Judy Rose Lanier, CVPM, CVA, VEMM, as executive director. Lanier brings more than 20 years of veterinary and association leadership experience, encompassing hospital operations, national education strategy, sponsorship development, and organizational growth. In her new role, she will lead NAAVR's strategic direction, oversee operations and financial stewardship, expand educational programming, strengthen industry partnerships, and serve as a national advocate for veterinary receptionists.

“Since its founding, NAAVR has stood as a groundbreaking force dedicated to elevating veterinary receptionists, the professionals who anchor the client experience and help shape the culture of veterinary practices across North America. This appointment represents a strategic step forward in expanding that mission with clarity, confidence, and national impact," the organization said in a news release.²

Connor Lawrie, CEO, Heartland Veterinary Partners

Heartland Veterinary Partners has promoted Connor Lawrie to CEO following a planned leadership transition. Lawrie joined the veterinary support organization as COO in 2017, when it had only a few practices, and has served as president and COO for the past three years. Prior to Heartland, he held operations and development roles at National Surgical Healthcare. His responsibilities at Heartland included strategic growth, field operations, marketing, integrations, procurement, and new facility development, helping grow the organization to nearly 350 practices across 32 states.

Greg DeAtkine, former CEO, will transition to the company's board of directors. “[Connor] has played a central role in building operational excellence, stewarding Heartland's vet-centric culture, and executing on the company's growth strategy, and the Board has full confidence that he will not only continue the company's success but take it to the next level," said Luke Schroeder, partner and co-head of Gryphon's Healthcare Group, in a company news release.³

References

1. Texas Tech Names James Reecy Vice President for Research & Innovation. News release. Texas Tech University. April 13, 2026. Accessed May 11, 2026. https://www.ttu.edu/now/posts/2026/04/texas-tech-names-james-reecy-vice-president-for-research-innovation.php
2. NAAVR Appoints Judy Rose Lanier, CVPM, CVA, VEMM as Executive Director. News release. North American Association of Veterinary Receptionists. April 6, 2026
3. Heartland Veterinary Partners Names Connor Lawrie as CEO in Planned Leadership Transition. News release. Heartland Veterinary Partners. April 20, 2026. Accessed May 11, 2026. https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/heartland-veterinary-partners-names-connor-lawrie-as-ceo-in-planned-leadership-transition-302747439.html