About Northlake

The Northlake Difference

Trusted Orthopedic Surgical Care Since 1980

Northlake Veterinary Surgery has been a cornerstone of Atlanta’s veterinary community for more than 45 years. Founded by Dr. Ken Greenwood, Atlanta’s first ACVS board-certified veterinary surgeon, Northlake established a new standard for advanced orthopedic surgical care in the region.

Today, that tradition continues with our team of ACVS board-certified surgeons and an exceptional nursing team dedicated to precision, innovation, and helping pets live active lives.

For more than four decades, Northlake Veterinary Surgery has helped thousands of pets regain mobility, comfort, and quality of life through advanced orthopedic surgical care. Our goal is always the same: restore strength, restore motion, and return pets to the activities they love.

We look forward to working with you and your pet.

A Tradition of Precision.

The Future in Motion.

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Our Surgical Team

Northlake’s surgical team is composed entirely of ACVS board-certified veterinary surgeons, representing the highest standard in veterinary surgical training. Together with a highly trained team of skilled veterinary nurses and caregivers, they continue a 45-year tradition of surgical excellence in Atlanta.

Matt Corse, DVM, MS

Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Surgeons
Owner, Northlake Veterinary Surgery

Dr. Matt Corse is an ACVS board-certified veterinary surgeon specializing in orthopedic surgery. Dr. Corse earned his Bachelor of Science from the University of California, Irvine, where he was a four-year scholar-athlete in track and field, competing in the 400m hurdles, triple jump, and mile relay. He received his veterinary degree from the University of California, Davis, followed by a small animal internship at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine and a surgical residency at Kansas State University.
While at Kansas State, Dr. Corse focused on canine spinal injuries, earning a Master’s degree in canine spinal biomechanics. His clinical interests include orthopedic sports injuries, and he has pursued advanced training through the University of Tennessee Canine Rehabilitation Program as well as specialized training in diagnostic musculoskeletal ultrasound for the evaluation and treatment of muscle and tendon injuries.
Dr. Corse is a consultant for Arthrex Vet Systems and has served as a lead instructor for continuing education courses in knee surgery for veterinarians across the country. He is proud to be part of the Atlanta veterinary community, providing advanced orthopedic surgical care for dogs and cats.
Outside of the hospital, Dr. Corse remains active in athletics. He was the 2012 Georgia Cat 3 Road Race Cycling State Champion and, after a 30-year hiatus, has returned to competitive track and field.
Dr. Corse and his wife, Yvette, have two children, Meena and James.

Kevin Coleman, DVM, CCRT

Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Surgeons

Dr. Kevin Coleman is an ACVS board-certified veterinary surgeon specializing in orthopedic surgery. Dr. Coleman earned his Bachelor of Science in Zoology from the University of Florida in 2002, where he was also a standout student-athlete. A successful pitcher at Lassiter High School in Marietta, he continued his baseball career at the University of Florida, becoming just the third player in program history to earn four consecutive SEC Academic Honor Roll distinctions. After returning from elbow surgery, he was selected in the 24th round of the 2002 MLB Draft by the St. Louis Cardinals before ultimately choosing to pursue a career in veterinary medicine.
Dr. Coleman received his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Florida in 2007. He completed a small animal rotating internship at Alameda East Veterinary Hospital in Denver, followed by experience in private practice in Cary, North Carolina, and as a clinical veterinarian at the North Carolina State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital.

He went on to complete a small animal surgical residency at the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicinein 2013. During his residency, Dr. Coleman focused on pain assessment in dogs and owner satisfaction following canine limb amputation, and has lectured on canine hip dysplasia and medial patellar luxation.

With a strong interest in orthopedic and sports-related injuries, Dr. Coleman earned his certification in Canine Rehabilitation Therapy in 2014, further expanding his ability to support patients through recovery and return to function.

Dr. Coleman is married to Dr. Amanda Erickson Coleman, a veterinary cardiologist at the University of Georgia. They have three daughters — Charlotte, Reese, and Harper — and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel named Henry.

Whitney Hinson, DVM, MS

Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Surgeons

Dr. Whitney Hinson is an ACVS board-certified veterinary surgeon specializing in orthopedic surgery. A Georgia native, she earned her Bachelor of Science degree, with a minor in Dance, from the University of Georgia in 2012, followed by her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Georgia in 2015.
She then moved to College Station, Texas, where she completed a small animal rotating internship and a four-year surgical residency at Texas A&M University, earning a Master of Science degree.
Dr. Hinson spent the first four years of her career as a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Georgia Small Animal Teaching Hospital, where she specialized in orthopedics and sports medicine. She has advanced training in arthroscopy, minimally invasive fracture repair, and total hip replacement.
Passionate about advancing veterinary orthopedics and educating future surgeons, Dr. Hinson is a faculty member of AO VET North America and an active member of the Veterinary Orthopedic Society, regularly participating in continuing education and professional development.
Dr. Hinson and her husband, Kevin, are proud parents of a son, Rocky, three dogs — Todo, Winnie, and Nala — and a blind cat, Stevie.

Ken Greenwood, DVM, MS

Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Surgeons
Founder & Emeritus Surgeon, Northlake Veterinary Surgery

Dr. Greenwood is an ACVS board-certified veterinary surgeon and the founder of Northlake Veterinary Surgery, established in 1980. He was the first ACVS board-certified surgeon in the greater Atlanta area, helping to pioneer advanced orthopedic surgical care in the region.
He earned his veterinary degree from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, followed by a small animal internship at Purdue University and a surgical residency and Master’s degree program at the University of Georgia.
Over the course of his career, Dr. Greenwood has provided specialized surgical care for thousands of dogs and cats, while also dedicating years of pro bono surgical services to Zoo Atlanta, treating a wide range of exotic species. His passion for advancing the field extends to unique areas of study, including advanced training in raptor external skeletal fixation at the University of Minnesota.
A committed educator and mentor, Dr. Greenwood has played an active role in training the next generation of veterinary surgeons. He established weekly video-conference rounds between Northlake and the University of Georgia and has served as a locum professor at both the University of Georgia and the University of Illinois, mentoring numerous surgical residents.
A respected leader in the veterinary community, Dr. Greenwood was named Veterinarian of the Year by the Greater Atlanta Veterinary Medical Society in 2006.
Outside of veterinary medicine, he volunteers at the Southeastern Railway Museum, where he helps operate and maintain a 1950s vintage miniature train. He is also an accomplished travel photographer, having journeyed to both the Northern and Southern polar regions to photograph and study wildlife. His fascination with animals in their natural environment continues to inspire his travels, and he recently realized his goal of encountering a blue whale in the wild.
In 2026, Dr. Greenwood will share his insight with a new generation of students, lecturing on bones and veterinary medicine at McClure Health Science High School in Duluth, Georgia.
As Emeritus Surgeon at Northlake, Dr. Greenwood remains actively involved in surgery, consultation, and the management of complex orthopedic cases.
Dr. Greenwood and his wife, Beth, have four daughters — Sarah, Anna, Bonnie, and Grace — and a grandson, Theo.

Our Dedicated Staff:

We’ve helped thousands of patients, from canine athletes and working dogs to beloved family pets.

Azra Ahmic

Referral Coordinator

Azra serves as a trusted resource for our clients, helping to coordinate care and ensure a smooth experience for both pets and their families.
She completed a veterinary technician program in her native country of Bosnia before moving to the United States in 1998. Azra joined Northlake in 2014, bringing with her more than 14 years of experience in specialty veterinary customer service.

Known for her thoughtful approach and attention to detail, Azra plays an important role in guiding clients through the referral and scheduling process with clarity and care.

Outside of work, Azra enjoys listening to music, reading, and spending time with her family and friends. She shares her home with two cats, Cody and Stella.

Rob Robeck

Referral Coordinator

Rob serves as a key resource for clients, helping to coordinate care and ensure a seamless experience throughout the referral process.
He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Florida State University and brings more than seven years of experience in referral coordination and customer service within the veterinary specialty field. Prior to joining Northlake, Rob worked with World Airways as a customer service representative, inflight service manager, and flight attendant — experience that reflects his strong commitment to service and attention to detail.

Rob and his partner have fostered many pets over the years and share their terrier mix, Biggie. In his spare time, Rob is a voracious reader and enjoys cooking and entertaining with friends.

Mandy Brody, CCRA

Licensed Veterinary Tech.
Certified Canine Rehabilitation Assistant

Mandy is a licensed veterinary technician and certified canine rehabilitation assistant with over 20 years of experience at Northlake. Her training and experience make her an invaluable resource, playing a vital role in supporting patients and their families throughout every stage of the surgical process — from the initial evaluation through final follow-up.

She graduated from Gwinnett Technical College in 2005 with a degree in Applied Science in Veterinary Technology and went on to complete her certification in canine rehabilitation in 2016.

Outside of work, Mandy is an avid sports fan — especially college football — and an accomplished photographer. She enjoys spending time with her dogs, Sizzle and Ozzie.

Katie Bryson

Licensed Veterinary Tech.

Katie is a licensed veterinary technician who has been a valued member of the Northlake team since 2011. She brings more than six years of prior experience in general veterinary practice, along with a strong commitment to patient care and client support.
Katie graduated from Gwinnett Technical College in 2005 with a degree in Applied Science in Veterinary Technology. At Northlake, her primary focus is guiding patients and their families through postoperative care and follow-up, helping ensure a smooth recovery and optimal outcomes.

Outside of work, Katie enjoys spending time with her daughter, Eleanor, their dogs, Winston and Gus, and their cats, Mr. Peepers and Gordita.

Michele Jones-Dowdy

Licensed Veterinary Tech.

Michele is a licensed veterinary technician who has been a valued member of the Northlake team since 2007. She brings a strong background in both general practice and specialty medicine, with five years of experience in general veterinary care and ten years in internal medicine specialty practice.
Her depth of experience and clinical insight make her a key member of the Northlake team. Michele is instrumental in supporting both patients and their families, ensuring continuity of care and a smooth experience throughout the surgical process — from initial evaluation through recovery and follow-up.

Outside of work, Michele enjoys spending time with her husband, their two sons, and friends.

Cathy Vian

Licensed Veterinary Tech.

Cathy is a licensed veterinary technician who has been a cornerstone of the Northlake team since 1994. She received her training in the United States Army, where she achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant.
Before joining Northlake, Cathy gained six years of experience in emergency medicine, bringing a high level of clinical skill and composure to her work. With over 30 years at Northlake, she continues to serve as a leader and trusted mentor, playing an integral role in patient care, supporting the surgical team, and guiding the development of veterinary nurses.

Outside of work, Cathy enjoys gardening, home improvement projects, and spending time with her family and her clowder of cats.

Lauren Surmik

Licensed Veterinary Tech.

Lauren is a licensed veterinary technician with more than 20 years of experience in veterinary medicine. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Biology from Georgia Southern University in 2003 and later completed her degree in Applied Science in Veterinary Technology at Gwinnett Technical College in 2014.
Lauren brings a diverse clinical background, with experience in general practice, emergency medicine, surgery, and zoo and exotic animal medicine. Her broad skill set allows her to contribute across every aspect of patient care, supporting both surgical procedures and overall patient wellbeing.

Outside of work, Lauren enjoys spending time with her husband, Ryan, along with their dogs, Possum, Indiana, and Dewey. She loves traveling, working out, and spending time outdoors with family and friends.

Chelsea Tynan

Licensed Veterinary Tech.

Chelsea is a licensed veterinary technician who joined the Northlake team in 2023, bringing eight years of experience in general veterinary practice.
She earned her degree in Applied Science in Veterinary Technology from Penn Foster in 2020 and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Kennesaw State University, completed in 2013. Chelsea is RECOVER certified and Fear Free certified, reflecting her commitment to patient safety, comfort, and high-quality care.
Chelsea is passionate about providing thoughtful, attentive care to every patient, helping ensure a positive experience throughout the surgical process.

Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, camping, and mountain biking with her husband, Ben, and spending time with her five cats and her dogs, Poppy and Griff.

Britney Martinez

Licensed Veterinary Tech.

Britney is a licensed veterinary technician and a 2024 graduate of Gwinnett Technical College, where she earned her degree in Applied Science in Veterinary Technology. She brings experience in both general and specialty veterinary practice, along with a strong aptitude for surgical care.
She is RECOVER CPR certified and Fear Free certified, reflecting her commitment to patient safety, comfort, and high-quality care. Britney has always had a passion for surgery and values being part of the team that supports patients throughout their surgical experience.

Outside of work, Britney enjoys spending time with her husband, Jean, and can often be found rewatching her favorite sitcoms or movies from the Marvel Universe.

Carnell Bennett

Veterinary Assistant

Carnell has been a valued member of the Northlake team since 2018, joining through the hospital’s work-study internship program. He brings additional experience from working in multiple veterinary specialty hospitals in Pennsylvania, contributing to his strong foundation in patient care and clinical support.
Known for his hands-on approach and dedication to the team, Carnell plays an important role in the management of post-operative patients, helping ensure a smooth recovery process.

Outside of work, Carnell is a talented dog trainer and enjoys spending time with his son, Obatala, and his daughter, Amani.

Christina Carpenter

Veterinary Assistant

Christina joined the Northlake team in 2021, bringing prior experience in emergency veterinary care and a strong commitment to patient support.
She earned her Master’s degree in Music Education from Georgia Southern University in 2017 and is currently completing her training in Veterinary Technology through Penn Foster, continuing to expand her clinical knowledge and skills.

Christina is dedicated to her growth within the field and plays an important role in supporting patient care throughout the surgical process.

Outside of work, she enjoys traveling to national parks and international destinations, participating in mud runs, crafting, and spending time with her German Shorthaired Pointer, Bandit.

Zuri Bowen

Veterinary Assistant

Zuri graduated from the University of Georgia in 2019 with a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science. During her time in college, she raised two puppies for the Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind, reflecting her early dedication to animal care and service. She joined Northlake with experience in both specialty and academic settings, including two years in a veterinary internal medicine practice and three years as an animal care technician in the University of Georgia Laboratory Animal Science Department.

Zuri plays an important role in supporting patient care and contributing to the overall surgical team.

Outside of work, she enjoys listening to music, playing video games, and spending time with her sister, friends, her dog, Luma, and her frog, Reptar.

Kara Clingan

Veterinary Assistant

Kara joined the Northlake team in 2024, bringing four years of experience in general veterinary practice and a strong commitment to patient and client support.
She enjoys building connections with both patients and their families and has contributed to the Northlake culture by initiating the hospital’s book club.

Outside of work, Kara enjoys spending time with her husband, Chris, traveling, hiking, attending live music events, and exploring Atlanta’s vibrant food and wine scene. She shares her home with two cats, Peach and Wallace, her dogs, Greta and Fanny Lou, and hopes to rescue many more in the future.

Jun Seo Kim

Veterinary Assistant

Jun is a 2024 graduate of the University of Washington in Seattle, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry. He plans to pursue a career in veterinary medicine and is currently gaining hands-on clinical experience while supporting the broader Northlake team.
Jun is bilingual and fluent in Korean, allowing him to connect with a diverse client base.

Outside of work, he enjoys creating EDM music with friends.

Careers

Veterinary Technician / Nurse
Northlake Veterinary Surgery is an orthopedic surgical specialty practice. We are seeking a Registered Veterinary Technician to assist our surgeons and complement our technical team.

We are looking for an individual with a desire for hands on surgery exposure, which includes scrubbing into surgery, monitoring anesthesia, and being a critical part of the operating room responsibilities. Candidate should also be someone who enjoys direct client interaction.

Our technicians are responsible for client education as well as patient care. Previous surgical specialty experience is not required. We have a great staff, a vibrant work environment, and we genuinely enjoy what we do!

Northlake is a unique work atmosphere in the veterinary field. Our hospital is open Monday through Friday. No weekends! No emergency hours or boarding!

The position is 40 hours of work per week (4 day work week with one week day off). Benefits include: Ideal 4 day work week schedule. NO WEEKENDS! Negotiable hourly wage based on experience/education. Paid time off, Paid CE, Paid licensing fees, holiday pay, health benefits and 401K with a match.

If interested, please email Yvette Roshto at yroshto@nvsatlanta.com. Also feel free to call or text at 404-849-0953.