Michelle Walter, SAVES Hospital Director,   Honored with 2025 Ethos Emerging Leader Award

At South Asheville Veterinary Emergency & Specialty (SAVES), we are proud to celebrate a milestone that reflects not just the strength of our hospital, but the resilience and vision of our leadership. Our Hospital Director, Michelle Walter, has been honored with the 2025 Emerging Leader Award—an honor presented to future leadership talent across the Ethos Veterinary Health network. This award is in recognition of her exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment, and the profound impact she has made in the face of extraordinary adversity. 

Just weeks into her tenure at SAVES, Hurricane Helene devastated Asheville, leaving most of the area without power, communication, or clean water. In the face of chaos, Michelle led with strength and empathy. She prioritized safety, kept the hospital running as long as possible, and coordinated a safe shutdown when the generator could no longer sustain operations. 

“Michelle navigated this crisis with remarkable composure, prioritizing the safety and well-being of her team, patients, clients, and the broader community. Given the extreme circumstances Michelle has navigated, she has gone above and beyond what would typically be expected of a hospital director. She is the kind of leader we should all strive to be.” - Mary Hunter, Division Leader 

When SAVES lost access to potable water, Michelle collaborated with compliance leaders to develop an approved process that allowed the hospital to safely resume services. She offered physical space to a referring veterinarian whose practice had been destroyed, gave extra shifts to a doctor displaced by the storm, and relaunched the Hilda’s Heroes assistant fund to support clients during a time of immense need. 

Her leadership extended far beyond logistics. Michelle’s empathy and resourcefulness helped stabilize her team and provide continuity of care to a city in recovery. Through all of it, she remained focused, present, and proactive. 

“Her impact on the veterinary community has been nothing short of transformative. Michelle embodies the qualities of an exceptional leader—visionary, resilient, and deeply committed to the success of her team and organization.” 

One of SAVES’ long-standing goals was to transition to 24/7 emergency services. Despite the significant challenges left in the wake of the storm, Michelle led her team toward that vision. On April 1st, 2025 SAVES officially began offering 24/7 emergency services—a milestone that marks both progress and perseverance. 

Michelle also recently completed her MBA, and continues to seek ways to grow both professionally and personally. Her drive, compassion, and ability to lead through adversity make her a role model not only within SAVES, but throughout the broader veterinary field. 

“Her passion and drive make her a force for positive change,” said her division leader. “There is no doubt that she will continue to shape the future of leadership.” 

We are beyond proud to have Michelle Walter leading our hospital. Her Emerging Leader Award is richly deserved, and it is just one chapter in what we know will be a long and impactful journey of leadership in veterinary medicine. 

Congratulations, Michelle—and thank you for inspiring us all.