2025 Dawn Stewart Memorial Scholarship Winners
Ariana Bilderback
Louisiana State University, Veterinary Medicine
From an early age, Ariana was captivated by the bond between humans and animals, especially large animals requiring specialized knowledge and care. Growing up around horses and livestock in a small Nevada town, Ariana quickly developed an appreciation for the challenges and rewards of large animal veterinary medicine. That early interest grew into a passion for large animal nutrition and medicine, rooted in the belief that proactive, informed care—especially through nutrition—is the foundation of long-term health and productivity.
While originally drawn to equine medicine, Ariana’s exposure to alpacas opened their eyes to a growing but underserved community in need of dedicated veterinary care. Alpacas’ unique biology and behavior, combined with their subtle signs of illness, highlighted for Ariana the vital role veterinarians play not only in treatment but also in prevention and education. This sparked a professional commitment to advancing camelid health, with a special focus on nutrition and parasite management.
Ariana’s goal is to become a veterinarian who bridges the knowledge gap for alpaca owners and breeders, providing evidence-based nutritional and medical guidance. Their vision includes clinical practice in regions where alpaca farming is common, alongside outreach and education that empower owners to care for their herds effectively. By advocating for alpacas and advancing specialized care, Ariana hopes to leave a lasting impact on both animal health and the community of people who cherish them.
Matti Renikow
University of Wisconsin—Madison, Veterinary Medicine
Growing up on a small hobby farm in northeast Wisconsin sparked Matti’s interest in large animal medicine. Surrounded by cows and horses, Matti came to understand the daily commitment required to care for livestock and developed a deep respect for the role these animals play in human health, livelihood, and recreation. That foundation inspired a desire to pursue large animal veterinary medicine and help address the shortage of veterinarians in this field.
In 2021, Matti was introduced to the alpaca community through Dawn Stewart at Eagle Eye Farm. Under Dawn’s mentorship, Matti discovered not only the unique personalities of alpacas but also the value they bring through their fleece and fiber. This experience expanded Matti’s vision for a career in veterinary medicine to include camelids, recognizing both their growing importance and the need for specialized care.
Looking ahead, Matti is committed to serving large animal owners while dedicating a special focus to alpacas and llamas. Inspired by early experiences and the unwavering support of mentors, Matti hopes to build a career that gives back to the animals—and the communities—that have given so much in return.
Rebecca Kanoza
Iowa State University, Veterinary Medicine
Rebecca is a fourth-year veterinary student at Iowa State University with a strong passion for large animal medicine. Originally from Syracuse, New York, her career path began at an animal hospital, where she spent two years working in a mixed animal practice before starting veterinary school. It was there, during barn calls with sheep, goats, llamas, alpacas, horses, and even the occasional camel, that Rebecca discovered her fascination with large animal care—particularly camelids.
Her time at this clinic gave her more than hands-on experience; it showed her the vital relationships between veterinarians, their clients, and the animals those clients depend on. Rebecca came to appreciate how much owners rely on their veterinarians not only for medical care, but also for guidance, problem-solving, and herd management. Witnessing the shortage of veterinarians willing to work with alpacas and other livestock solidified her determination to serve this underserved community.
Rebecca is committed to advancing large animal medicine with a focus on camelids. She believes veterinarians must balance providing the best possible care with realistic solutions for owners who may lack extensive resources. By sharing knowledge, offering practical treatment plans, and collaborating with colleagues and clients alike, she hopes to improve access to quality care for alpacas and other livestock.
Looking ahead, Rebecca intends to be a veterinarian that owners can rely on to put animal health first while also contributing to the growth of the alpaca community. She is eager to continue building her expertise, finding solutions to the unique challenges alpacas present, and promoting the health and well-being of these remarkable animals.
2024 Dawn Stewart Memorial Scholarship Winners
Rayann Eaves
Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Rayann’s passion for veterinary medicine began in childhood, rooted in agriculture and family support. Through 4-H and FFA, she formed a lasting bond with animals—especially alpacas, who have shaped her path since she started raising and showing them at age eight. Her first alpaca, Spade, gave her confidence and opened doors to opportunities across the industry.
Learning from breeders and veterinarians nationwide, Rayann has deepened her commitment to camelid care. Her goal is to open a private practice specializing in camelids and large animals, while also advancing the alpaca industry through research and education. As a Saul T. Wilson Jr. Scholar, she will serve as a Veterinary Medical Officer for the USDA, protecting agriculture and public health. She looks forward to continuing her work improving the lives of animals and the people who care for them.
Nick Morrow
Washington State University, Veterinary Medicine
Nick Morrow’s passion for alpacas began in 2014 while caring for a small herd of Huacayas. Watching their behavior firsthand sparked a lifelong interest that grew into teaching seminars nationwide and founding his mobile training business, Hooves, Humps & Horns LLC. Since 2018, he has worked with alpacas, llamas, camels, reindeer, yaks, and even more exotic species, helping owners build safe, cooperative relationships with their animals.
Nick’s interest in medicine led him to collaborate with Dr. Charmian Wright, a leading alpaca veterinarian in Utah. After graduating from veterinary school in 2026, he plans to join her practice and continue her 40-year legacy. He has already contributed significant research, creating the world’s largest camel gastrointestinal parasite database and hopes to launch a similar study on alpacas.
Looking ahead, Nick is eager to serve his community as a veterinarian. His deep connection with alpacas and commitment to Dawn Stewart’s legacy guide his work and vision for the future.
Heather Clawson
The Ohio State University - College of Veterinary Medicine
Heather’s first encounter with alpacas came during an interview for a ranch job while studying at UC Davis. What began as part-time work soon grew into a passion, leading her to become herd manager and an active member of the alpaca community. She gained experience across the industry—breeding, showing, educating new owners, and even raising her own crias—earning the nickname “Alpaca Princess” among friends.
In 2017, Heather joined the international Nunoa Project, trekking with veterinarians into the Peruvian Andes to provide sustainable herd care alongside local farmers. The exchange deepened her respect for the cultural and economic role of alpacas and llamas in rural communities.
Now a student at The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Heather serves as Outreach Chair for the student club and collaborates with breeders to host camelid-focused wet labs. With scholarship support, she plans to pursue externships with Ohio’s many alpaca veterinarians, attend national conferences, and return to Peru to continue her work. Looking ahead to graduation in 2027, she is committed to meeting the critical need for veterinarians who specialize in camelid care.