Meet Our Staff

Dr. Charla Draper, Veterinarian

Dr. Draper is a rural Illinois native who earned her BS in Biological Sciences from Oklahoma State University and her DVM from Ross University. Dr. Draper has practiced in several states across the country while her husband, Dr. Bill Draper, completed his specialty in veterinary neurology. Her professional interests include surgery, ophthalmology, dermatology and exotics. Dr. Draper's family includes her husband, two daughters and twin boys, their dog, cat, three horses, and a pony.

Dr. Keith Benson, Veterinarian

Exotics have always been a passion for Dr. Benson. He completed a residency in Zoological Medicine at the University of California School of Veterinary Medicine. where he gained additional training in both zoo and companion exotic species. Upon completion, Dr. Benson joined the veterinary staff at Riverbanks Zoo as an associate, and eventually as the Senior Veterinarian, where he practiced for over 16 years. His family includes his wife, two children, and a herd of leopard geckos.

Hannah, Practice Manager

Hannah graduated with her degree in Biological Anthropology from the University of South Carolina, and previously worked as an ICU Nurse and Referral Coordinator for a specialty clinic before moving to general practice in 2014. After hours, she is a member and instructor at the Greater Columbia Obedience Club, and enjoys participating in competitive dog sports.

Lisa LVT, Technician Supervisor

Born and raised in Irmo, Lisa graduated with her BS in Veterinary Technology from Newberry College in 2002. She worked at South Carolina Veterinary Specialists and Emergency Care for 8 years, where she served as the Nursing Manager. Lisa joined the Cornerstone team in 2014 as the hospital's Lead Technician. Outside of work, her family includes her husband, two children, and a menagerie of rescued animals.

Hannah, Licensed Veterinary Technician

Hannah grew up in Gilbert, SC and graduated with her BS in Biology with a Minors in Art Studio in 2013. She has worked in the veterinary field since 2006, but joined our team following an externship through Piedmont Technical College, graduating with a Degree in Veterinary Technology in 2018. She has a menagerie of pets including a dog, cats, rats and a guinea pig and loves to spend her free time making art and being outdoors - camping, hiking and kayaking.

Kendal, Technician Assistant

Kendal was born and raised here in Irmo, SC. She has always been a passionate advocate for owners and their pets, and loves the variety of small animal and exotics patients we see on a daily basis. She joined the Cornerstone team in 2016 after working 3 years in shelter medicine. At home, she is owned by two Dachshunds, Dude and Ella, and one cat, Sassy.

Chelsi, Lead Receptionist

After working in shelter medicine and the veterinary field since 2012, Chelsi joined the receptionist staff in 2017, and is a strong advocate for homeless pets. She graduated with her BA in Business Administration with a concentration in Non-Profit Management. Outside of work, she loves spending time with her 3 rescued dogs, Mary Shelley, Dublin and Casey Jones the "tripawd." She enjoys traveling, and is always planning her next adventure.

Kat, Receptionist

Kat was born and raised here in the midlands, and joined our team in the summer of 2018. She recently graduated with her BS in Biology and a Minor in History, but plans to pursue her Masters in Anthropology. Kat loves working with all creatures great and small, and is passionate about helping animals and people alike. She is the proud dog mom of Hidalgo, Pepper and Snort, and spends her free time playing competitive softball and travelling.