Our Team
Our Team
Our Team
Dr. Hicks graduated from Auburn University in 1986 with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree and a Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology. After graduation, he moved to central Florida where he practiced as an associate veterinarian at multiple animal hospitals.
In 1996, Dr. Hicks opened Boggy Creek Animal Hospital, the realization of a dream to create his own hospital and provide small animal veterinary services to the Kissimmee/ St. Cloud area.
After selling Boggy Creek Animal Hospital earlier this year, Dr. Hicks is embarking on a new adventure, the creation and development of Narcoossee Oaks Animal Hospital. Located just south of Lake Nona in Osceola County, this new 8000 square foot hospital will have the capability to serve the veterinary needs of this rapidly growing community, utilizing the newest equipment and all that he has learned in 35 years of practice. He enjoys all aspects of companion animal medicine, but special areas of interest include laser surgery, dermatology, and internal medicine.
Dr. Hicks has been active in organized veterinary medicine with the Veterinary Emergency Clinic of Central Florida and the American Animal Hospital Association. He has been on the Board of Directors for the Veterinary Emergency Clinic for 14 of the last 20 years. He is currently in his last year of serving as Chairman of the AAHA Leadership Identification & Nominating Committee, the group that selects the Board of Directors for the American Animal Hospital Association.
When away from the practice, he likes to spend the majority of his time with his wife, Stephanie and their four daughters, two dogs, a cat, two tortoises, two snakes and a guinea pig. His hobbies include travel, fishing, lake conservation, landscaping and sports of all kinds.
Dr. Ray graduated from Purdue University’s College of Veterinary Medicine in 2016 and practiced in her home state of Indiana for 3 years before moving to Florida in 2019. Since then, she has been practicing canine and feline medicine in Orlando before joining the team at Narcoossee Oaks Animal Hospital.
Dr. Ray’s love for animals began at an early age. She had cats and dogs growing up and showed sheep and pigs for 4-H. She has practiced small animal medicine since graduating and enjoys all aspects of veterinary medicine. After work, Dr. Ray enjoys spending time outdoors by taking long walks with her husband, two children, and three dogs.
Dr. Huff was born and raised here in St. Cloud, Florida before deciding to travel to Pensacola where he attend the University of West Florida and pursued a Bachelor’s Degree in General Biology. There he started working as a Veterinary Technician which inspired him to apply to Veterinary school. Dr. Huff attended Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine on the island of Saint Kitts and Nevis located in the Caribbean and finished his Clinical Rotations at the University of Florida in 2024. During his schooling he developed a passion for canine and feline preventative health, surgery, and critical care. Outside of the hospital, Dr. Huff usually spends his time either running, fishing or at the beach or spending time with his dog and cat.
Stephanie graduated from St. Petersburg Junior College as a Certified Veterinary Technician in 1991 and worked in general practice for 3 years. She then started working with a veterinary ophthalmologist in Winter Park, where she developed a passion for ophthalmology. During the ten years there, Stephanie founded and was past president of VOTS, the Veterinary Ophthalmic Technician Society, a national organization still in existence today. She also published several articles for the Veterinary Technician Journal. In addition, Stephanie presented many lectures to veterinarians and technicians at annual ACVO and VOTS conferences. Her most meaningful accomplishment is her family – her husband Bob and their four daughters. Today, she enjoys homeschooling her youngest daughter, scrapbooking, traveling the US and taking care of her dogs and tortoises. Looking to the future, Stephanie is beyond excited to be an integral part of a new, modern veterinary hospital, which promises to provide the highest quality of veterinary care for the community.
Dr. Ashley is originally from Paris, Kentucky. She completed her undergraduate studies at Morehead State University in eastern Kentucky and earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine in May 2022. (Go War Eagles!). In her free time she enjoys visiting amusement parks, hiking, or eating at one of her favorite restaurants.
Cyd Marie graduated from the University of Central Florida (GO KNIGHTS!) and earned her Bachelors in Biology. At a young age her goal was to become a Veterinarian, however once she officially started working in the veterinary field that goal shifted. She found a new passion in helping others learn how to advocate for animals. Cyd Marie has worn many hats during her veterinary career ranging from receptionist, surgical technician, and now Practice Administrator. Her next career goal is to become a Certified Veterinary Practice Manager. “I’ve always envisioned myself to be a manager that can help on the floor when the team needs it.” When away from work Cyd Marie loves to spend time with her family and pets which include a Shorkie named Romeo (named after a famous Spanish singer) and a cat named Kitty (It took us too long to name him and it stuck). Her hobbies include reading or fishing at any pier she can find.
A member of our team since May 2022, Valerie was born in New York and raised here in Orlando, Florida. In 2021 Valerie received her Bachlors in Biology from the University of Central Florida (Go Knights!). She couldn’t stop there, once she realized her immense love for animals Valerie decided to pursue her certification as a Certified Veterinary Technician at St. Petersburg College. Valerie is excited to use her certification to broaden the variety of patients she sees including exotics such as leopard geckos (one of her current pets!). Outside of caring for animals and school, Valerie’s hobbies include: reading, crocheting, spending time with her boyfriend, and her pets, Toast and Fez.
Rhiann has been working in the veterinary industry for 40 years. She has a great passion for her patients, medical, surgical, and Mental health. This has definitely impacted her personal life as well. Showing Labrador retrievers in AKC confirmation. Earning her AKC Breeder of merit award and Three gold breeder owner handler medallions.
Retired from training and showing dogs she found herself ending up in her original passion which was riding horses. She currently is riding her Dutch Warm blood that she has raised from a one-year-old and is showing in Dressage. She also has earned her USEF USDF bronze Metal in that sport.
When she was not busy with all of her animal passions she has a wonderful husband of 34 years and a very happy 29-year-old son whom she loves dearly.
Since she was young, Winno has always loved animals. She found volunteering at veterinary offices and shelters in Puerto Rico very rewarding, so she decided to devote her life to saving animals. Since moving to Orlando in 2017, she has been pursuing her degree in pre-vet biology. She began her career as a kennel tech, and because of her hard work and dedication was quickly promoted to vet assistant, then technician, then cross-trained as a surgical tech.
Between work and studies, she still volunteers at Osceola County Animal Services. She’s the proud owner of a rescue dog named Pinky, a rescue cat named Nala, and a bunny named Moana. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, going to the beach, and going to the park.
Ever since she can remember, Kiki has had a passion for animals. Their instant acceptance and ability to comfort humans has always amazed her. The path to realizing that her true calling was veterinary medicine began while she was studying at Southern Technical College. During her courses, she realized her intrigue with animals went beyond how cute and cuddly they are. She became interested in how she could heal and comfort sick animals.
Kiki has volunteered at animal shelters, shadowed veterinarians and veterinary technicians, and worked in clinics as both a receptionist and kennel tech. Her love for animals began as a dream many years ago and now she feels blessed and grateful that she gets to continue pursuing her dream at Narcoossee Oaks Animal Hospital.
Katrina has been in the veterinary field for over 20 years and is still to this day excited to increase her knowledge in this expansive field. Animals have always been a huge part in Katrina’s life and family and she enjoys making their lives healthy and happy. Katrina is owned by her loving cats and two dogs (Madison a senior Dorkie and Raja a young adult ShiChi). Previously, she rescued ferrets for 13 years but now works diligently helping stray cats in her community. When not spending time with animals Katrina can be found reading, roller blading, working on sudoku/word puzzles, or just being around calming waters.
I got my start in veterinary medicine after attending the veterinary technician program at the Institute of Technical Arts. After graduating in 2015 I began working at an animal clinic in Kissimmee where I worked as both a receptionist and a veterinary assistant. I look forward to continuing my education and improving the well-being of pets while working at Narcoossee Oaks Animal Hospital. My own pets at home consist of my two dogs, a chi-weenie named Delilah, a black and tan coonhound named Ellie, as well as two tuxedo cats, Midna and Loki. On my time off I enjoy spending time with my family, watching movies or reading a good book.
A native of St. Cloud, Autumn began volunteering at Witts End Farm Equine Rescue at age 7. Growing up, she also showed rabbits, poultry, pigs, and goats in 4H. Her early exposure to animal care sparked the desire to pursue it as a career. Autumn participated in Harmony High School’s Veterinary Assistant Program for 3 years and worked caring for giraffes at a local attraction. She hopes to build custom terrariums for reptiles as a hobby while she continues to pursue her vet med career at NOAH. At home, Autumn is a rescue mom to a Catahoula Leopard dog named Lola and a Lab/Pit named Kilo. In her free time, she enjoys painting, exploring nature trails, wildlife photography, and let’s not forget cuddling with her doggy’s!
Diana joined the NOAH team just a few months after relocating from Garland, TX in May 2022. Diana is a huge help here at NOAH as our cat whisperer and Inventory Guru. Her current certifications include: Fear-Free, Cat-Friendly Veterinary professional, CPR and First Aid. Her favorite thing about veterinary medicine is that there is always something new to learn. Diana is working on becoming a Certified Veterinary Technician and broadening her skills as a Technician at NOAH. Her interest in animals sparked after growing up surrounded by rescue pets her family adopted. She is a pet mom to rescue Shih Tzu Gordy, and her three cats Skye, Stella, and Luka. When she isn’t saving animals, she loves to spend time with her fur babies and family or reading and trying new cuisines.
When asked what makes you passionate about the veterinary field Sarah couldn’t have summarized it better, “I love animals”. Once you arrive at Narcoossee Oaks Animal Hospital get ready to find Sarah with a welcoming smile and snuggling with your pets (if it’s mutual of course!). Sarah has dedicated her career as an Office Administrator and has been able to incorporate her years of experience into the veterinary field. In her spare time Sarah can be found at the beach, catching up on the newest book trends, and playing with her grandkids or fur kids which include her 3 cats: Easter, Sadie, and Magnus.
Natalie started her career at Narcoossee Oaks Animal Hospital as a volunteer and has successfully climbed the ladder in becoming one of our Veterinary Assistants and Pet Care Specialists. Her passion for veterinary medicine sparked since she was young and flourished once given the opportunity to participate in her school’s Veterinary Assistant program. In her free time Natalie enjoys singing in her choir group, partaking in theater, and being at home with her furry friends Max, Loki, and Beans. Natalie is excited to continue advancing her career in Veterinary Medicine and is hoping to earn her CVA while also advancing her knowledge in exotic animals. When asked what she enjoys about Narcoossee Oaks Animal Hospital, Natalie’s response was: “I enjoy the experience of being in a Veterinary Clinic! I love the people I work with and the pets that I get to care for that board with us”.
Robin was born in Cuba and raised in Miami, Florida. In 2023, Robin made the decision to move to Orlando, Florida. He graduated with his Bachelors in Biological Sciences and is striving to learn more each day. Currently Robin is the pet dad of a Labrador named Abby, a Chihuahua mix named Kiki, and a recently rescued cat named Kai. When not spending time with his wife and fur kids you can find Robin watching historical documentaries or Sci-Fi stories. When asked what makes him most passionate about the veterinary field Robin’s response was “I love getting the opportunity to heal animals so that they can continue to have fun and enjoy their lives.”
Jessie joined the NOAH team in August 2022. A native of Dallas, TX, she moved to Orlando in 2019. Jessie has always dreamt of working with animals but her interest sparked with her first dog “Blue”, a Blue Heeler. Jessie considers herself a homebody and enjoys spending time with her friends, her husband and their two dogs, Nova and Zeva. She also enjoys watching movies and reading (especially anything related to Harry Potter!). “I love being a Veterinary Technician and providing the best care for pets”. You can typically find Jessie wearing multiple hats here at Narcoossee Oaks Animal Hospital. If you ever wonder who creates our engaging social media posts, yes it’s Jessie! She enjoys having our team involved in social media and creating a transparent platform to help pet owners understand how to best care for their pets!
Riley has had a passion for the veterinary field since childhood and is excited to be working in a role that helps turn that dream into a reality. She loves being part of a team that allows her to learn, grow, and gain hands-on experience with the animals she’s always cared so deeply about. Outside of work, Riley enjoys going to the gym, hanging out with friends, and exploring new places or trying new things whenever she can. Her curiosity, upbeat energy, and dedication make her a wonderful part of our team.
Jennifer graduated from Southern Technical College in 2020 and earned her certification in Veterinary Assisting. Growing up Jennifer had a variety of reptiles which magnified her love for animals. When asked what she enjoys about NOAH she replied: “The clients and the team are the greatest!” We couldn’t agree more! Jennifer is a local to Florida and absolutely loves going to the theme parks in her spare time. If she’s not at a theme park you may find her catching up on any Adam Sandler movie. Jennifer has the biggest soft spot for Labs and Doodles and is even the proud owner of a perfect Labradoodle named Leia.
Samantha has been a veterinary technician for over seven years. Growing up, she dreamed of becoming a zoologist and studying animals in the wild. Veterinary medicine became a wonderful pivot from that dream, allowing her to gain incredible, life-saving skills while still pursuing her passion for animals. Her journey into veterinary medicine began with her own kitten, who became severely ill with an unknown disease and had no available treatment options. After months of vet visits and witnessing firsthand the compassion, dedication, and teamwork of the veterinary staff, Samantha was inspired to join the field herself. Today, she finds immense joy in helping animals—whether it’s providing life-saving care or simply ensuring their routine wellness. Outside of work, Samantha loves spending time with her wonderful family and creating fun memories together. When she gets a rare moment to herself, she enjoys diving into a good book. As she likes to say, “This tech runs on books and her toddler’s energy!”
Trace was born and raised in St. Cloud, Florida, and has always had a love for animals—especially dogs. He currently owns a husky and plans to grow his pack in the future! One of his favorite ways to unwind after work is spending time playing with his dog. Trace enjoys being part of a team that helps animals heal, grow, and open up socially over time. Watching them progress and gain trust is what makes his work so rewarding.
“Working in veterinary medicine has given me the knowledge to help an animal in distress. I’ve always been able to connect with animals and understand how to help them best when they need it the most, this feeling feeds my soul.” Keilys was born in Cuba and graduated with her certification as a Veterinary Assistant in 2020. While she is not the current owner of any pets she does pet-sit a beautiful Cavalier named Lexi when her pet owner is out of town. If you happen to catch a scent of baked treats, it’s probably the last cake Keily’s created; She’s an excellent baker! In her spare time you can catch Keilys catching up on her fantasy novels or enjoying the outdoors.
When she’s not caring for patients, you’ll often find Yei hiking, enjoying the beach, taking long walks, or powered by her favorite fuel, lots of coffee. Her passion for the veterinary field comes from an endless love for animals and a deep calling to help and advocate for them every day. At Narcoossee Oaks Animal Hospital, Yei enjoys the warm, welcoming environment and the supportive team she works alongside. She believes that the people you work with make all the difference and she loves being part of a group that shares the same dedication to excellent pet care.
Yei currently shares her life with Klaus, her beloved black German Shepherd mix. A fun fact about Yei — her favorite animals are horses! As she continues her journey in veterinary medicine, her goals include growing further in the veterinary field and pet industry, expanding her skills, and making a positive impact on every patient she meets.
When asked what Julie is most passionate about the veterinary profession Julie replied “I love animals and I love helping them walk out of here happy and healthy.” Julie started as a Pet Care specialist and has since transitioned to our Surgical and Veterinary Assistant. Julie loves the opportunities she is given to learn so much from experienced staff members and Doctors.When not at work, Julie can be found catching up on sleep or making a quick stop at Dunkin. Her pets include a yellow lab named Cooper and a beautiful white kitty named Nina Rose.
Emily has always had a deep love for animals and a passion for helping those in need. From a young age, she dreamed of becoming a veterinarian, and that dream continues to guide her journey today. Emily is currently part of the pre-vet program at the University of Central Florida and is set to graduate in Fall 2027 before pursuing veterinary school at the University of Florida. Outside of her academic pursuits, Emily enjoys an active and creative lifestyle. She loves weightlifting, running, rock climbing, drawing, and playing the piano. She also finds peace in nature and cherishes time spent with her family and her golden retriever, Indy, who she calls her best friend. One of her favorite Bible verses is 1 Corinthians 9:24, which inspires her to keep striving toward her goals — to grow into the best version of herself academically, physically, and spiritually.
Atiya Pherai was born and raised in Orlando, Florida. From a young age, she has always had a deep love and connection with animals—a passion that has grown into a lifelong career dedicated to their care and well-being. For over 11 years, Atiya has worked in the veterinary field, where each day brings new challenges, lessons, and moments of joy. Her greatest fulfillment comes from knowing she plays a vital role in saving pet lives and helping families find peace of mind when their beloved companions are in need. When she’s not in her scrubs, Atiya enjoys spending time with her son and family, embracing life’s simple moments. Whether it’s going on family outings, playing with her three pups—Whiskey, Cookie, and Daisy—or relaxing in her bird room surrounded by the calming sounds of her feathered friends, she cherishes every bit of it. Home is her sanctuary, but her heart also lies in her work. Every pet she cares for serves as a reminder of why she chose this path — to make a difference, one paw at a time.
Denise is passionate about being an advocate for animals and loves getting to know the pets who come through our doors — they’re her favorite part of being at Narcoossee Oaks Animal Hospital. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, crocheting, and taking long walks with her dog, Theo. She also loves spending time with friends and family. At home, she shares her life with Momo the cat and Theodore the dog. Denise is currently working toward her goal of getting into veterinary school, and we’re excited to support her as she continues growing in the field.
