Associate Professor

Jane R. Shaw, DVM, PhD is a recognized expert in veterinarian-client-patient interactions. Her dissertation was the first scientific study of veterinarian-client-patient communication and her publications focus on the analysis of videotaped conversations between veterinarians and their clients and animal patients. Of interest is studying the relationship between communication and clinical outcomes for veterinarians, clients and patients, including satisfaction, adherence and patient health.

Dr. Shaw is an Associate Professor of Veterinary Communication and Director of Veterinary Communication for Professional Excellence at Colorado State University. Dr. Shaw received her veterinary degree from Michigan State University in 1994 and received her PhD in Epidemiology at the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada in 2004. In 20018, Dr. Shaw was the recipient of the Bustad Award, recognizing her contributions to enhancing the relationship between people and their pets and the in 2011, Colorado Veterinary Medical Association Outstanding Faculty of the Year Award. In 2018, she was the inaugural recipient of the Academy for Healthcare Communication Teaching Excellence Award for advancing the field of healthcare communication.

Dr. Shaw implements the communication curriculum at Colorado State University, focusing on clinical interviewing skills to enhance professional performance through partnership with colleagues and clients. She serves on the workshop committee for the International Conference on Communication in Healthcare. Dr. Shaw is called upon internationally and nationally to conduct skills-based communication workshops at veterinary conferences and symposia. She consults with veterinary practices to enhance teamwork, continuity of care and client service. Jane shares her life with her beloved 4-legged friend yellow Labrador, Charlie.

Communication and Curriculum Coordinator
​Courtney joined the Veterinary Communication team in 2017 after recently moving to Fort Collins from San Francisco. There she spent almost 10 years as an Administrative Support Coordinator at San Francisco State University. She brings her eye for detail and event planning experience to CSU to provide a supportive learning environment for veterinary students and visiting professionals.

Courtney received her Master’s in Library and Information Science from San Jose State University in 2015 and currently splits her time between the Veterinary Communication office and the Poudre River Public Library District, where she works both in circulation and as a substitute librarian. When she’s not working somewhere, she spends her time on a hike, at yoga, with family, or reading a good book, all preferably outside in the Colorado sunshine.