Revitalizing Rural Communities as Ag Professionals | Alissa Kirchhoff
Transforming Lives Through Veterinary Care and Local Leadership
Alissa Kirchhoff’s journey into veterinary medicine and her commitment to rural community development is a story of resilience, adaptability, and passion for both animals and people. Growing up in Wichita, Kansas, Alissa didn’t come from an agricultural background, but she always felt drawn to the world of agriculture. Her journey into veterinary medicine was a way to integrate her love for animals with her desire to contribute to rural communities. Little did she know that this path would not only shape her career but also the future of her community.
Alissa’s story is a reminder that sometimes, your dreams may not come from traditional routes, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be fulfilled. Raised in the city of Wichita, Alissa’s exposure to agriculture was limited. However, her family’s roots in northern Minnesota gave her a glimpse into the farming way of life. Despite her early disconnect from agriculture, Alissa found herself fascinated by the relationships that veterinarians built with farmers and ranchers, especially when solving complex problems. This led her to pursue veterinary school at Kansas State University, where she eventually became a mixed animal practitioner.
After working in mixed practice for several years, Alissa realized that balancing her career with her growing family wasn’t as easy as she had hoped. Despite having the dream job, she felt the strain of being away from home too often. After taking a step back, Alissa found a way to balance her love for veterinary work and her family life by launching a house call service for small animals. This decision gave her the flexibility she needed while continuing to serve her community in a new and unique way.
“Even in a small town, people have the power to make a big impact, whether that’s through small changes or big, long-term projects.”
Alissa’s business, based in rural Phillips County, Kansas, allows her to travel throughout a three-county region, making house calls and providing veterinary care in clients’ homes. This model has become incredibly successful in a rural community, where having access to a house call vet is a luxury. But Alissa didn’t just create a new way of practicing veterinary medicine; she also built stronger connections with her clients. By seeing them in their homes and creating a comfortable environment, Alissa is able to build trust and foster long-lasting relationships that wouldn’t be possible in a traditional clinic setting.
But her work isn’t just about animals. Alissa is deeply committed to the community she serves. She has used her unique position as a veterinarian to become a leader in local organizations, from the local Farm Bureau to the hospital board. These roles allow her to give back to the community in ways that go beyond veterinary care. Alissa’s involvement in these groups has also helped her gain a deeper understanding of the issues affecting rural areas and how she can contribute to solutions.
Through her leadership, Alissa has also seen firsthand how small communities benefit from young people coming back to serve. Her experience is a testament to the importance of education and training, and how those who leave small towns for education or professional opportunities can bring valuable knowledge and ideas back to their communities. Alissa believes that even in a small town, people have the power to make a big impact, whether that’s through small changes or big, long-term projects.
One of Alissa’s most powerful pieces of advice is to push yourself out of your comfort zone. It’s easy to get stuck in routines or to shy away from challenging conversations, but Alissa has learned that growth happens when we challenge ourselves. Whether it’s through conversations about tough topics or stepping into leadership roles that feel intimidating, she encourages others to seek out opportunities to learn and grow. Her commitment to connecting with people, whether it’s through conversations or her work on boards and committees, shows that making a difference doesn’t always require grand gestures—sometimes it’s about showing up, being willing to listen, and offering support where it’s needed.
Alissa’s story is a reminder that rural communities need people with specialized skills, and it’s up to those of us with those skills to come back and serve. Whether you’re a veterinarian, a teacher, a doctor, or any other professional, there’s a need in every small town for someone to step in and make an impact. As Alissa demonstrates, the work is rewarding, and it’s a great way to not only serve but also to grow and develop as an individual and a community.
