Athena M. Diesch, MSW, LGSW
Athena earned her master of social work degree from the University of Minnesota in 2011 and is currently licensed at the graduate level in the state of Minnesota. As an intern in the University's Veterinary Social Services program, Athena learned from the founder of the program, discovering her calling and passion for veterinary social work. Athena continues to attend to the “heart work” of veterinary medicine that was started at the Veterinary Medical Center many years ago.
Athena has a wide range of professional interests, including crisis intervention and debriefing, group work, and family medical therapy. She delivers training on the topic of human-animal relationships to veterinary professionals, animal welfare organizations, and social service providers throughout Minnesota.
Kristi Lehman, MSW Intern (left):
Kristi is currently working towards her Masters degree in Social Work at the University of Minnesota, with plans to graduate in May 2013. Kristi graduated from the University of Minnesota with her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a minor in Family Social Sciences. She has a wide range of experience, including literacy work with young children, employment training and education advancement work through the AmeriCorps program, and case management services. Kristi also volunteers and co-chairs several events for local community and animal rescue non-profits. Kristi has always had a passion for animals, and strongly believes in the importance of the human-animal bond in her client’s lives. Meghan Lucore, MSW Intern (right): Meg is currently pursuing her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Minnesota. She also attended the U of M for her undergraduate degree in Psychology and Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies. She has experience working as an advocate at a domestic violence shelter that helps families and at an organization that provides support to adults with serious mental illnesses. These experiences have directly led to her interest in the social services provided by VMC. She has frequently seen the extraordinary bond that occurs between animals and humans, and too often it is under-recognized and under-supported in our society. She is so excited to be here doing work that she is so passionate about. | |
