Outstanding Seniors in Veterinary Technology for Spring 2025

The Veterinary Technology Program is proud to announce our Outstanding Seniors for Spring 2025! A ceremony was held on Friday, April 11, 2025, to recognize all the Outstanding Seniors from the College of Arts & Sciences.

Wynn Gazolla
Gabby Litzinger
Nathan Moyer
Carmela Pastorelle
Edie Wood

Wynn Gazolla (he/him) is from Winston-Salem, NC majoring in Veterinary Technology as a second degree. His first was a B.S. in psychology also from App State! He has been working toward a degree in veterinary technology on and off since the start of his veterinary career in 2017. Though it has been a long journey, he is grateful to have the finish line in sight! He has dabbled in shelter medicine, general practice, and emergency medicine, but has found his niche in laboratory animal medicine. Wynn feels this program was an excellent step for his career, education, and goals. This degree feels well-earned and he looks forward to taking the VTNE and gaining licensure.

A faculty member said of Wynn, "He demonstrates excellent communication skills, effectively collaborating with peers, instructors, and veterinary professionals to ensure clarity and efficiency in patient care. Wynn has also shown a strong dedication to laboratory animal medicine. I have no doubt that Wynn will have a lasting impact on the field of veterinary medic."

Gabrielle Litzinger is a senior from Chapel Hill. As a quiet kid, she always felt a special bond to animals and has enjoyed taking care of them. Whenever she sees an animal. Her favorite moment in the program was participating in the lab animal boot camp at Wake Forest University. It was her first time around exotic animals and having hands-on experience which was exciting! Her plans for the future are to find a job in a small animal practice in North Carolina and to help serve the community by helping the family of our furry friends be healthy to live their best life!

A faculty member said of Gabrielle, "Gabby has made enormous progress throughout the program, demonstrating just how much can be achieved through hard work and determination. She is a great example that with consistent effort and dedication, reaching your goals is absolutely possible."

Nathan Moyer is a senior from Southport majoring in veterinary technology. Moyer's favorite memory from his time at App State is participating in last summer's study abroad trip to Zimbabwe.
When asked about a faculty member who made an impact on his life, Moyer replied, "So many had a positive impact, including Jennifer Serling, Beckie Mossor, Ann Wortinger, Tammie Smith and Kelly Guy. Each has inspired and motivated me to excel in everything I put my mind to. Jennifer Serling's positive attitude and inspiring words have helped me decide on the next steps in my career. The support this faculty provides its student body is next to none." Moyer hopes to enroll in a veterinary education graduate program next.

A faculty member said of Nate, "Nate exemplifies excellence through dedication, compassion, and a relentless commitment to animal care. With exceptional academic achievements, hands-on clinical expertise as an RVT, volunteerism, and a commitment to technician education, Nate consistently goes above and beyond to support both peers and patients. His leadership, professionalism, and passion for veterinary medicine make him a true asset to the field. I have no doubt that Nate will continue to make a lasting impact in veterinary technology education and beyond."

Carmela Pastorelle is a senior from Durham, and she is incredibly grateful for this online program. It allowed her to balance both work and school, giving her the opportunity to apply what she is learning directly to her job. This experience has helped her grow, and she is excited to continue developing into a confident and capable RVT. She also wanted to thank all of her instructors for their constant support and willingness to answer questions. One of the most unforgettable parts of this journey was traveling to Zimbabwe, a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Meeting her professors and classmates in person and sharing that adventure with them was truly amazing!

A faculty member said of Carmela, "She is one of the brightest and hardest-working students I have met. She always has a smile and is so ready to take on whatever she is asked to do. My favorite memory is seeing the absolute joy and wonderment on her face when we came face to face with an elephant for the first time in Zimbabwe. I have no doubt she will go on to do amazing things in our profession."

Edie Wood

A faculty member said of Edie, "She has consistently impressed faculty with her resilience, kindness, and drive to excel. Edie will undoubtedly set an example for excellence that will inspire future Veterinary Technicians!"

Image from the Award Ceremony

Spring 2025 Outstanding Seniors