How We Make a Difference
SEF is a non-profit corporation founded in 2003 by Simmons & Associates to educate practitioners and students about the business of veterinary medicine. Since its founding, SEF has reached thousands of veterinarians through its sponsorship of speaking engagements, CE meetings, and veterinary organizations such as VBMA, VLE, and others with similar goals.
Dedicated to the next generation of veterinarians, SEF’s flagship project reaches veterinary students through the Business Aptitude Award program, having provided more than $1.8 million in student awards to date.
Our Leadership
David King, DVM, CVA
A graduate of Texas A&M University, David King, DVM, CVA, earned his Doctorate in Veterinary medicine in 1987. The founder of two successful veterinary practices and a working ranch, he understands the success factors necessary to operate thriving businesses. In addition to veterinary association memberships, Dr. King is a charter member of VetPartners is often requested to share his expertise in the field of practice sales by lecturing at veterinary conferences on both the national and state levels. He is dedicated to nurturing seeds of entrepreneurship and practice ownership among veterinarians and serves as trustee of the SEF.
Jim Stephenson, DVM, CBA
Jim Stephenson, DVM, CBA, enjoys sharing his business and practice experience and expertise earned since 1979 as founder and owner of two successful veterinary hospitals in the Northeast. Jim has presented at local and national meetings, to associates and owners, to VIN members and to student groups, as well. Since 1993, he has worked with practice owners, most recently specializing in practice valuations for the purposes of divorce, litigation, and estate proceedings. He remains active with multiple appraisal associations and committees and is co-author and speaker on valuation and sales matters within the veterinary profession.
Sue L. Wiseman, DVM
Sue L. Wiseman, DVM, earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Washington State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. Along with her late husband, Larry Wiseman, DVM, she owned an award-winning animal practice in Colorado Springs, CO, for 20 years. She has served as chairperson of the Small Animal Commission and CVM Strategic Planning Commission, as was instrumental in establishing the Simmons & Associates Intermountain regional office. She has a true passion for the veterinary profession and serves as treasurer of the SEF.
Our Sponsors
Get Involved
SEF supports the advancement of veterinary business education through sponsorship of continuing education sessions and speakers, collaboration with organizations such as the Veterinary Business Management Association, and our flagship program, the Business Aptitude Award, which has provided more than $1.8 million to veterinary students since 2005.
Our Sponsors make our work possible. Ready to get involved?
- To find out how you can contribute to SEF, please contact David King.
- You can also support the work of SEF through the purchase of “Your Veterinary Practice – Buying, Selling & Merging,” by Dr. Doyle Watson and Dr. Byron Farquer, of Simmons & Associates. All proceeds go to the Simmons Educational Fund.
Contact Us
Interested in learning more about the programs through which you can get involved with SEF and the business of veterinary medicine? Contact our team.
