Registered Veterinary Technicians (RVTs)
Our experienced Registered Veterinary Technicians (RVTs) are often found working hard behind the scenes of our Pet Health Center. They shines as the lifeblood of our clinic, and stand alongside our veterinarians, offering crucial support in the care of our animals and contributing to the education of our veterinary students. These dedicated professionals are the backbone of our clinic and curriculum, ensuring the well-being of our patients and the satisfaction of our clients all while supporting the mission of our College. Meet our RVT team below!
Jessica Diaz Registered Veterinary Technician
Nicholas Garcia Registered Veterinary Technician
I have roughly 17 years of experience as a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT), having received my RVT license through Platt College. My hobbies include cactus and succulent collecting, seeing live music, doing art projects with my daughter at home.
Marisol Haro Registered Veterinary Technician
I am an RVT and I have been in the veterinary field for about 11 years. In high school I started volunteering at a local animal shelter, helping pets become more social and increasing their chances of getting adopted. I was pre-vet but decided that being a veterinary technician would allow me to do a little of everything that I enjoyed. I have worked in many different departments; including shelter medicine, surgery specialty, general practice, 24-hour emergency, physical therapy and high volume spay/neuter. I love and enjoy every aspect of my career. When not working I am hanging out with my dachshund named Rylee, cycling, checking out new record shops or just at home watching a good movie. Being in the veterinary field is not easy but it is very rewarding and I am glad to be able to help the community.
Peter Hoang, BA, AS, RVT Registered Veterinary Technician
I have worked in the veterinary medicine for the past 3 years and received my education and technical training in the field through Mt San Antonio College. Prior to that, I went to California State University, Los Angeles where I received my bachelor’s in Political Science. During my time in undergrad, I have always found it fulfilling working in education and often aspired to work in an educational institution which has led me to WesternU. Outside of my work at the University, I enjoy weight lifting, dining at new cafes, watching romcoms, and reading graphic novels.
I am a Fear Free Pets Small Animal level 2 certified RVT.
I am a Fear Free Pets Small Animal level 2 certified RVT.
Prisma Martinez Registered Veterinary Technician
Hello my name is Prisma and I am an RVT. I graduated with both a Pet Science Associate Degree and a Veterinary Technician Associate Degree from Mt. San Antonio College. I am also the Clinical Sciences and Skills Coordinator at Western University of Health Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine and provide assistance during our veterinary student labs. I enjoy working at the WesternU Pet Health Center and am happy to work with the incredible faculty and staff at the University. In my free time, I enjoy running and taking care of my pets.
Zachary Morris, RVT, CCRP Registered Veterinary Technician
I am both a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) and a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner (CCRP). I have been working in the veterinary field for the past 12 years, as a shelter volunteer, ASPCA national field responder, veterinary assistant, surgery technician, emergency technician, research associate and rehabilitation practitioner. I first attended an online school for a Veterinary Assistant certificate. After several years, I enrolled in Carrington College’s Veterinary Technology program and most recently completed the University of Tennessee, Knoxville’s Rehabilitation Practitioner program. When I am not at work, I am spending time with my wife and 4 children, going to school events, music lessons, art classes, cheer practice and trying to squeeze in time for family camping, fishing trips and riding motorcycles.
Jacklyne Portillo, RVT Registered Veterinary Technician
Jacklyne joined the WesternU Pet Health Center team in May 2024. Keep an eye out for her updated bio, coming soon!
Leslie Tortez Registered Veterinary Technician
A life-long resident of San Bernardino where I always had a menagerie of pets and knew early on that I wanted a career involving animals. I obtained my Registered Veterinary Technician license in 1985 and have enjoyed this occupation ever since. I am co-founder and treasurer of the Inland Valley Veterinary Technician Association (founded 1991) and am an advisory board member for several RVT colleges. My interests include antiques, gardening, art and a partnership in two Thoroughbred race horses. I currently have an array of furry (and not-so furry!) friends, including dogs, cats, rabbits and tortoises. I am happy to have recently joined the Western University family.
Crystal Villa Registered Veterinary Technician
I started working at WesternU Oct. of 2022 and have been in Veterinary Medicine (VetMed) since 2013. I graduated from Carrington College and became a RVT in 2016. My love for VetMed came after being able to help treat my dads dog after her vet visits and witness her full recovery. I am a mom to two cats, one King snake, and a Tarantula. On my spare time I love to play softball and spend time using our water and dirt toys with family and friends.