Putting People and Patients First: Donna Sroczynski’s Vision for Ethos
May 15, 2025
Having just wrapped up her first Annual Meeting as interim president, Donna Sroczynski shares the career journey that led her to Ethos, how it shaped the way she leads, and the importance of keeping the well-being of our teams and the pets we treat at the heart of everything we do.
A Holistic Approach
Donna joined Ethos in 2022 as vice president of operations – Central region before stepping into the role of Interim President & Head of Operations in November 2024. Before joining Ethos, her career was in human healthcare, where she held leadership positions in nursing operations. Her education includes a Bachelor of Science in nursing and a Master of Science in nursing leadership and complex adaptive systems.
However, Donna’s career would have taken her down a different path if it hadn’t been for an unexpected change of heart. “I was originally supposed to be a music major,” she said. “I changed to a nursing major literally as I was arriving at school. I still enjoy music very much, but I have no regrets about my change in profession all those years ago. I’ve had a fulfilling and rewarding career.”
Her background as a nurse who quickly moved into leadership roles gave her a deep appreciation for clinical work and the need to keep the patient at the center of her decision-making. Her unique perspectives gained working in clinical and operational sectors set her apart, guiding her to manage with balance, empathy, and compassion.
With a business leader’s perspective, Donna is taking on the challenge of aligning Ethos’ 144 hospitals to achieve operational efficiency and scale. She balances this goal with the need to ensure the well-being of the hospital and Support Center teams, and provide the best possible care to our patients and their families.
Leadership Style
While operational effectiveness is critical to the success of our hospitals, the animals in our care are Donna’s priority. “The patient must be the focus of all we do,” she said. “We exist because of them.” From teams across the company, Donna expects empathy and compassion toward patients, their families, and toward one another. “I want all our team members to practice candor and kindness to work through difficult times and resolve conflict.”
She encourages team leaders to listen and truly pay attention to what people are saying. “Seek out information and throw yourself into discomfort; that’s where the growth is,” she said. “Surround yourself with good people; many will know more than you about a given topic. If you make a mistake, admit it, apologize for it, and be vulnerable. That’s OK.”
Talent and Culture
It’s no surprise that one of Donna’s goals is to grow the company by attracting people with exceptional talent and the desire to help reach the most pets in need. In exchange, she promises them unrivaled support and caring. No matter their chosen role, they will play an essential part in revolutionizing veterinary medicine. “At Ethos, you will be part of an organization that cares for you as a person,” she said. “We will work to keep you engaged and excited about your chosen profession.”
Life Outside of Work
At home, Donna seeks the same balance she prescribes at work, prioritizing self-care while managing a demanding schedule. “Frankly, I could do better at this,” she confessed. “But I make sure I get enough sleep, and when I need a break, I prioritize that.” To unwind, she enjoys relaxing by the lake with her family, reading, cooking, and sports.
She and her husband have three grown daughters and six grandchildren and share their home with two beloved dogs. “My dogs are so important to me,” Donna said. “Daphne is a Saint Berdoodle, and Rory is a black and white Great Dane. Rory is a sensitive girl who needs a lot of emotional support.”
As interim president, Donna Sroczynski leads with vision, heart, and a strong sense of duty toward Ethos and the people and animals we are entrusted with. Her guidance is helping Ethos grow stronger every day.