Paws and profits: New chief development officer at VetEvolve, and more

VetEvolve, a network of veterinary practices has appointed a new chief development officer with more than 2 decades of experience. The announcement comes shortly after the company announced a new CEO. Meanwhile, at the American Kennel Club, a former teacher is leading public education projects at the American Kennel Club as the nonprofit’s vice president of education.

Continue reading to learn more about each of these individuals.

Catherine Howell, MHA, CEO, VetEvolve

Last month, VetEvolve named Catherine Howell, MHA its new CEO. Prior to her appointment, Howell was VetEvolve’s chief operating officer (COO) and interim CEO. She has close to 2 decades of experience across healthcare leadership roles such as COO at Mass Advantage and vice president of operations at Cancer Treatment Centers of America. Howell received recognition in 2019 from Managed Healthcare Executive as one of the Top 10 Up-and-Coming Industry Leaders in Healthcare.

“I am honored to lead VetEvolve at such a pivotal momen. I have witnessed firsthand the VetEvolve team's commitment to support our people, equip our practices to deliver the highest level of care for the pets and communities we serve, and grow in a way that is sustainable and meaningful for our teams and our business,” Howell said in a company release.¹ “I believe our best days are ahead, and together, we have an incredible opportunity to shape the next chapter of VetEvolve and continue on our mission: taking care of the lives of people and pets.”

Clayton Stanley, chief development officer, VetEvolve

More recently, VetEvolve appointed Clayton Stanley as its chief development officer. In his new role, Stanley will be responsible for the company’s business development and mergers and acquisitions functions (M&A). He has more than 20 years of experience in M&A. In his most recent position, Stanley was chief development officer for a veterinary consolidator.

“Clayton brings the experience and relationships to help us accelerate growth while staying true to our values,” Howell said in a company announcement.² “His leadership will ensure that the right partners join and feel as supported as our very first.”

Ashley Jacot, MBA, MEd, vice president of education, American Kennel Club

After joining the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2017 as a public education manager, Ashley Jacot, MBA, Med was promoted to the organization’s director of education a year later. Now, Jacot serves as its vice president of education, where she leads public education projects that raise awareness on responsible dog ownership, breeders, trainers, judges, and the general dog-owning public. She also manages the AKC Library and Archives. Prior to joining the AKC, Jacot was a middle-school educator.

"Ashley's dedication to education and her ability to connect with diverse audiences make her an invaluable leader," Gina DiNardo, president and CEO of AKC, said in a news release.³ "Under her leadership, our educational programs have grown in reach and impact, and I have no doubt she will continue to elevate AKC's mission of promoting responsible dog ownership and lifelong learning."

References

1. VetEvolve appoints Catherine Howell as CEO, strengthening commitment to people-first growth and partner practice success. News release. VetEvolve. September 3, 2025. Accessed October 10, 2025. https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/vetevolve-appoints-catherine-howell-as-ceo-strengthening-commitment-to-people-first-growth-and-partner-practice-success-302544607.html
2. VetEvolve appoints Clayton Stanley as chief development officer amid growth to 50 partner hospitals. News release. October 2, 2025. Accessed October 10, 2025.
3. The American Kennel Club promotes Ashley Jacot to vice president of education. News release. American Kennel Club. August 18, 2025. Accessed October 10, 2025. https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-american-kennel-club-promotes-ashley-jacot-to-vice-president-of-education-302530627.html