Kerri Nigito, DVM ’09, has built her career around a simple yet powerful philosophy: veterinarians shape not only the health of animals, but the safety and well-being of entire communities.
Originally from Allentown, PA, Dr. Nigito returned to St. George’s University in 2018 as a full-time faculty member in the School of Veterinary Medicine’s Large Animal Medicine and Surgery Department. Earlier this year, she stepped into a new role as assistant dean of student affairs, expanding her impact on the next generation of SGU-trained veterinarians.
Her passion for large animal medicine began early, rooted in hands-on work with dairy cattle in rural Pennsylvania and fueled by a deep interest in food safety. While she initially envisioned a strictly clinical career, mentoring aspiring veterinarians drew her back to academia and to SGU, providing an opportunity to give back to the community that shaped her own professional path.
“Watching students discover their strengths and evolve into resilient, compassionate practitioners is truly the most rewarding part of what I do.” —Dr. Nigito
In both the classroom and the field, Dr. Nigito is known for fostering student growth, whether she’s teaching livestock medicine, helping a student build confidence in their clinical skills, or guiding them through the challenges of a demanding curriculum. “My goal is to help students see that mistakes are part of the process,” said Dr. Nigito. “And overcoming challenges is what shapes a successful veterinarian.”
Dr. Nigito shared with SGU News more about her journey, her new role supporting SVM students, and her advice for future veterinarians.
SGU: What inspired you to choose a career in veterinary medicine?
Dr. Nigito: I’ve always been fascinated by where our food comes from and the veterinarian’s role in ensuring its safety. Caring for my own pets sparked my early interest in animal health; but it was my undergraduate work with dairy cattle, gaining firsthand experience in herd health and food production that truly solidified my passion for large animal medicine. Seeing how veterinarians influence both animal welfare and the broader food system made me want to be part of that essential work.
SGU: As assistant dean of student affairs, how do you support students in this new role?
Dr. Nigito: My role focuses on providing students with the guidance, resources, and individualized support they need to thrive. I emphasize professional development, help students navigate challenges, and work to maintain a positive, respectful learning environment. Above all, I want them to understand that growth comes through perseverance—and that setbacks are a normal part of becoming a confident practitioner.
SGU: What excites you most about your work at SGU?
Dr. Nigito: Helping students grow is truly the heart of what I do. Watching them develop into capable, compassionate veterinarians is incredibly rewarding. What excites me most is the opportunity to encourage students to explore large animal or rural practice, areas where there is a significant need for skilled professionals.
SGU: You also lead SVM’s Professional Attributes Workshop (PAWS). What is its impact?
Dr. Nigito: PAWS helps incoming students begin developing essential skills such as communication, leadership, and collaboration right from the start of their program. It also builds early connections among classmates, giving them a strong foundation of support needed to succeed in a rigorous academic environment.
SGU: Did you always envision yourself working in academia?
Dr. Nigito: Not at all. As a student, I didn’t yet have the confidence to picture myself teaching. But once I began practicing, I found I loved mentoring students who shadowed me. Seeing how I could influence their learning and career decisions was incredibly fulfilling. When the opportunity to return to SGU arose, I knew it was a meaningful way to give back while encouraging others to pursue unique or nontraditional paths, like my specialization through the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners.
SGU: What has been a particularly memorable or rewarding moment in your career?
Dr. Nigito: One of my proudest moments was attending SGU’s SVM graduation in 2023 and participating in the hooding ceremony. It brought my experience as an SGU alumna and faculty member full circle and allowed me to celebrate the culmination of my students’ success. I am always proud of our students’ achievements and hope I’ve played a small role in their future accomplishments.
SGU: What advice would you give prospective students considering SGU’s DVM program?
Dr. Nigito: For students considering SGU, I recommend keeping an open mind, staying curious, and embracing a sense of adventure. Veterinary medical school is challenging, but it’s also transformative. Be prepared to work hard but know that the experience will be life changing.
