Submitted by J. Hudson on Wed, 30/09/2026 - 16:38
The Queen's Veterinary School Hospital, part of the Cambridge Vet School, bids farewell to Head Nurse Sharon Chandler on 30 September as she retires after an extraordinary 44-year career at the University of Cambridge.
Sharon joined the hospital in 1982 as a trainee veterinary nurse and has spent more than four decades helping shape veterinary nursing services, supporting students, caring for patients and leading the development of the hospital's nursing team.
As Head Nurse, Sharon has overseen significant growth in both the size of the team and the complexity of cases treated at the QVSH. Among her many achievements, she is particularly proud of establishing pathways for student nurses and Veterinary Care Assistants, helping to support the next generation of veterinary professionals.
Reflecting on her career, Sharon said: "I've had a wonderful career and wouldn't change it for the world. The Veterinary School is a very special place, full of talented people, and I've been fortunate to work alongside so many dedicated colleagues over the years."
During her time at Cambridge, Sharon has witnessed huge changes in veterinary medicine, nursing education and the wider University campus. She has also represented the profession internationally and welcomed distinguished visitors, including Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
As she prepares for retirement, Sharon is looking forward to spending more time with friends and family, gardening, sport and community activities.
Everyone at the Department of Veterinary Medicine and the Queen's Veterinary School Hospital would like to thank Sharon for her outstanding contribution and wish her a long, happy and well-deserved retirement.
