At our 2025 VetEvolve Leadership Summit, the organization took a moment to reflect on how far it has come and honor the person who helped start it all.
Dr. Jerry Goldfarb, founder of Fairfax Animal Hospital, was VetEvolve’s very first partner. At a time when the company was just two Marine veterans with a vision, he took a chance on them. That leap of faith laid the foundation for everything VetEvolve has become.
VetEvolve founder Nick Lodestro returned to this year’s Summit to present Dr. Goldfarb with the VetEvolve Values In Play (VIP) Award and share a few heartfelt words. “His belief in us became the foundation upon which everything else was built — every new partner, every new teammate, every milestone. It started with him.”
Nick’s speech was full of warmth and humor, but also highlighted the way Dr. Goldfarb has truly embodied the core values that define VetEvolve:
Serve – Dr. Goldfarb’s commitment to service runs deep. As a U.S. Army Veterinary Corps veteran during the Vietnam War, he served his country and profession with quiet strength and honor. That same spirit carried through his work as a veterinarian and leader. Nick reminded the audience that “men like Jerry demonstrated pride, honor, and continued dedication to serving others” even during difficult times. His legacy of service continues to inspire VetEvolve’s teams today.
Trust – Trust is earned, not given, and Jerry was the first to extend it. He believed in the VetEvolve vision, in who its founders were, in people, and in what they were trying to build. Nick recalled, “He was the first to truly trust that Paul and I had his best interests at heart. Not just his — but his team’s too.” His faith in them showed the kind of mutual respect and partnership that VetEvolve strives to build with every practice.
Evolve – Dr. Goldfarb never stopped learning or adapting. Whether it was implementing new technologies, adjusting to operational shifts, or supporting his team through change, he leaned in rather than away. “What I’ve always admired about Jerry is how open he’s been to change,” Nick said. “That kind of flexibility is rare.” His willingness to evolve mirrors VetEvolve’s commitment to helping practices grow beyond what they thought was possible.
Nick summed it up best by saying “Jerry kept believing in us. He’s been an incredible partner. An even better friend.”
It was a powerful and emotional moment, a reminder of where VetEvolve started and what truly matters. Dr. Goldfarb’s trust, service, and adaptability continue to shape the organization’s culture and future.