Sharon Acker, LVT
Practice Manager / Licensed Veterinary Technician
Growing up with dogs, cats, and all sorts of farm animals, Sharon knew from a very young age that her passion for animals would be her life’s work. In the early years, it was 4-H and FFA that fueled Sharon’s passion, but as she grew older, she began to get more serious about her career aspirations. While she initially set out to become a vet, she quickly discovered that veterinary technology was her true calling.
After earning her bachelor’s degree in animal science from Texas A&M, Sharon’s life took her on an unexpected path, leading her from her home in rural Texas to southern California where she landed a job as a veterinary assistant at a small animal practice. A few years later, Sharon returned to her Texas roots with plenty of hands-on experience and a veterinary technician license.
Having worked with Dr. Carter in the mid-90’s, Sharon joined Manor Veterinary Hospital in June of 2009. Dr. Carter needed a manager and Sharon was seeking a great private practice, so the timing could not have been more perfect! Thanks to a career spanning over three decades, Sharon considers it a true blessing to have experienced entire lifespans of pets and the people who love them. Clinically, she has a special interest in assisting with surgery and working with critical care patients.
Outside of work, Sharon lives on a five-acre farm in Elgin with her husband, Daniel, her 16 year old cat Noah, and an assortment of other animals. When she’s not busy wrangling the livestock or making sure the clinic is running smoothly, Sharon enjoys reading, tending her succulents/cactus, hiking, and spending time with Daniel, her children Lauren and Nathaniel, and her extended family. Her most memorable event to date was her recent five-day hiking trip in Asheville, NC, where she experienced the magnificent Blue Ridge Mountains and was able to raft the French Broad River.
Katelyn
Veterinary Technician
For as long as she can remember, Katelyn Ewing has been fascinated by medicine. She’s always enjoyed the puzzle-solving side of it—the constant evolution of knowledge, the challenge of learning something new every day. But when it came to human medicine, something didn’t sit right. It felt impersonal, a little too clinical for her.
Veterinary medicine, on the other hand, sparked something different. It offered all the intellectual stimulation she craved, but with a deeper sense of connection and purpose. It gave her the chance to help patients who can’t speak for themselves and to build trust with the people who love them.
After graduating from college, Katelyn returned to her hometown of Austin and began looking for a job that would let her stay close to family. She joined Manor Veterinary Hospital, where she found a team that shared her passion for excellent patient care, learning, and growth.
Today, Katelyn thrives in her role as a veterinary technician. She especially loves the one-on-one time she gets with patients—learning their quirks, building their trust, and seeing their personalities shine through. No two animals are ever the same, and that variety keeps her engaged, curious, and always improving.
She also finds joy in the pace and unpredictability of the work. From monitoring anesthesia to assisting with diagnostics, each day presents new challenges and opportunities to learn. For Katelyn, boredom is never part of the equation—and that’s exactly how she likes it.
Outside the clinic, you can find her enjoying time with her own pets and exploring the neighborhoods and trails around Austin. But at the end of the day, what fulfills her most is knowing she’s made a difference—one pet, one family, and one moment at a time.
Taylor Harpst
Veterinary Technician
Hailing from St. Louis, Missouri, Taylor entered the veterinary industry a bit later in life than many of her colleagues. In 2014, after several years in the culinary world, she decided to trade in her apron for a chance to pursue her other passion: animals. Turns out, it was one of the best decisions she’s ever made!
Prior to joining the Manor Veterinary Hospital team, Taylor got her feet wet working as a kennel assistant for a clinic in Belton. From there, she worked her way up—first to receptionist, then eventually technician. Professionally, Taylor loves learning new things and building long term relationships with clients and their cherished animal family members.
Outside of the clinic, Taylor is happily married to her high school sweetheart, Tim. Together, they share four pets, including a chocolate lab named Charlie, an Irish wolfhound mix named Asha, and two kitties: Odin and Gus. In her spare time, Taylor enjoys painting, tie dying, cooking, listening to music, and caring for her houseplants.
Johanna Kearsley
Veterinary Technician
Johanna Kearsley joined Manor Veterinary Hospital on Valentine’s Day of 2022, a fitting start date for someone who pours so much heart into caring for animals. Her journey to veterinary medicine wasn’t a straight line—before finding her calling, Johanna worked as a stage technician and nanny. Yet, she always felt a pull toward animals. Then the day came when Johanna decided to take a leap of faith, and apply for her first job in the veterinary field. Three and a half years later, she hasn’t looked back.
Johanna began her veterinary career as a kennel technician and quickly worked her way up to veterinary technician. She loves the investigative side of her role, especially when it comes to wound care, ear cytology, and skin cytology—areas where her curiosity and attention to detail make a meaningful difference for pets and their families.
Some moments in veterinary medicine are hard, but Johanna carries with her the stories that reaffirm her purpose. She recalls the day a stray Great Pyrenees, hit by a car, was rushed in by police officers. The dog’s femur was fractured, and at first there seemed to be little hope. But with the help of an animal rescue organization, the pup received surgery and a second chance at life. For Johanna, that was the day she felt certain she had discovered her true calling in veterinary medicine.
A true Austin native, Johanna was born and raised here and is now raising her own son, Liam, in the city she loves. Her close-knit family—including her mom, dad, and brother—remain an important part of her life. Outside of the clinic, Johanna has returned to school at Austin Community College, where she has developed a passion for philosophy and plans to transfer to Texas State to continue her studies.
At Manor Veterinary Hospital, Johanna sees each day as an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of pets and their people.
Ja’Keem Gourdine
Kennel Technician
Ja’Keem Gourdine has been part of the Manor Veterinary Hospital team since 2019, though his connection to the clinic began much earlier. Since middle school, he dreamed of working with animals and recognized Manor Veterinary Hospital as the perfect place to start that path. When the opportunity arose, he eagerly joined the team.
Growing up, animals were Ja’Keem’s greatest solace and passion. As a shy and introverted child, he found comfort and companionship in animals, and he knew early on that he wanted to dedicate his time to their care. In high school, he volunteered at the Austin Humane Society and participated in the Future Farmers of America (FFA) chapter, gaining hands-on experience that fueled his commitment to animal care and wellbeing.
Beyond his technical skills, Ja’Keem is known for his calm presence and genuine empathy. He loves meeting new pets, especially the boarders, and enjoys creating a calm, peaceful environment where they can feel safe. He instinctively eases anxious or nervous pets, offering gentle reassurance or extra time for boarders to explore. Bathing pets and performing ear cleanings are among his favorite tasks, allowing him to build trust with animals and provide instant relief when they need it most. By creating a trusting, comfortable environment, he helps pets feel safe and gives owners confidence that their companions are in caring hands.
Outside of work, Ja’Keem shares his home with his cat, Margie, who was adopted from Manor Veterinary Hospital. Once a little terror, Margie has settled into her role as a moderately perfect house cat, giving Ja’Keem endless joy and companionship.
With his dedication, patience, and hands-on experience, Ja’Keem ensures that every visit to Manor Veterinary Hospital is a positive, reassuring experience for both pets and their owners.
Samantha Ward
Receptionist
Growing up, Samantha had many pets, all of whom were special to her. It was her dog, Chico, however, who truly made an indelible mark on her heart. Chico could always seem to sense when Samantha needed a little extra love and was there for her through many moments of need. When Chico succumbed to an illness, Samantha vowed that she would one day find a way to help other pets in his honor.
Prior to joining the Manor Veterinary Hospital in April of 2022, Samantha had spent several years working in a call center. She was eager to step into a role that would not only be more fulfilling but would also allow her to get her foot in the door to the veterinary world. In her current role as receptionist, Samantha enjoys meeting new people and playing a part in helping sick pets feel better.
Outside of work, Samantha is happily married with one daughter. Their family is made complete with five fur babies, including four cats (Tinker Bell, Kane, Gohan, and Valkyre), and a dog named Finn. When she’s not busy manning our front desk or spending time with her family (two-legged and four), Samantha enjoys reading and being outdoors.
Mercedes Medina
Receptionist
A native Austinite raised in Pflugerville, Mercedes joined the Manor Veterinary Hospital team in August, bringing her passion for animals and a warm, caring nature. Having worked in the animal field before, she was excited to find a place where she could continue doing what she loves. Recently certified as a veterinary assistant, Mercedes is already looking ahead to earning her veterinary technician license.
One of Mercedes’ favorite parts of her job is interacting with patients and their owners. She finds joy in comforting clients and seeing the relief on their faces after a smooth visit. Whether it’s a wiggly puppy or a curious kitten, every day brings new experiences and special moments that fuel her dedication to her work.
At home, Mercedes’ heart is full, thanks to her lively pack of fur babies. Her cats, Keba and Nirvana, are her loyal snuggle buddies. Keba, despite his senior status, still enjoys a spirited game of fetch, while Nirvana, the diva of the house, has quickly become part of the family. Her dogs, Shadow, Marky, and Molly, each bring their own unique charm—Shadow and Marky may stir up some mischief, but tasty treats quickly win them over, and Molly, though sweet, never hesitates to voice her opinions.
When she’s not caring for animals or working toward her goals, Mercedes can often be found at the gym, exploring her hobbies, and cherishing the adventures she shares with her pets.
Heidi
Receptionist
Bio coming soon
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