Michelle Rader, a native of Wichita, grew up loving animals and always knew she wanted to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. She graduated from Colby Community College in 1978 with a degree in Animal Hospital Technology. She joined Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Hospital of Wichita in 1981 after three years at a local animal clinic. She found her passion in emergency medicine and in 2000 she became certified as a Veterinary Technician Specialist in Emergency and Critical Care. A true leader in our hospital, Michelle assumed additional responsibilities as office manager and was ultimately promoted to Hospital Manager. She motivates the team, and makes things happen by believing in our mission.

Outside the hospital, Michelle maintains active involvement in local, county and state Animal Response Teams for disaster deployment. She is happily married to her husband, Sid. With their son and daughter grown, they now share their home with animals big and small. The pet crew includes cat, Opie, and dog, Tig, along with horse, Getty, and a donkey, Pete. Michelle enjoys trail rides with friends, snow skiing with her daughter, stained glass projects, and she recently took up piano. Her personal mantra is “Ain’t nothin’ better than ridin’ a fine horse in new country,” Augustus McCray.