Student honor code
Xavier University School of Veterinary Medicine (XUSOVM) believes that maintaining the highest standards of professional conduct, integrity, and ethical behavior is a shared responsibility of both students and faculty. In partnership with the Student Government Association (SGA), XUSOVM promotes a culture of honesty, accountability, professionalism, and mutual respect.
The Student Honor Code serves as a guiding framework for student conduct and reflects the values and expectations of the veterinary profession. All students are expected to uphold the Honor Code throughout their enrollment at XUSOVM and throughout their professional careers.
XUSOVM Student Honor Code
"Upon my honor, I will uphold the ideals and ethical standards of the veterinary profession and protect the reputation and integrity of Xavier University School of Veterinary Medicine throughout my academic and professional career. Continuing the tradition of excellence, professionalism, and service, I pledge to leave the institution stronger than I found it and encourage others to do the same."
All students will be required to affirm the following statement:
"I pledge, on my honor, to uphold the Honor Code of Xavier University School of Veterinary Medicine and to conduct myself with integrity, professionalism, honesty, and respect."
Veterinary medical student pledge of professional conduct
Being admitted to the study of veterinary medicine, I solemnly pledge to use my knowledge, skills, and judgment for the benefit of animals, society, and the veterinary profession through:
- The protection of animal health and welfare;
- The prevention and relief of animal suffering;
- The conservation of animal resources;
- The promotion of public health and One Health principles;
- The advancement of veterinary medical knowledge; and
- Service to my community and society.
I will practice my profession conscientiously, with compassion, integrity, dignity, and respect for all living beings.
I will uphold the principles of veterinary medical ethics and accept as a lifelong responsibility the continual improvement of my professional knowledge, skills, and competence.
Professional attributes of a xusovm student
The following professional attributes are expected of all XUSOVM students and are considered essential components of professional development and academic progression.
Reflective Skills
Students should:
- Demonstrate self-awareness and recognize personal limitations.
- Accept responsibility for errors, omissions, and areas requiring improvement.
- Seek, accept, and appropriately respond to constructive feedback.
- Demonstrate resilience and maintain composure in challenging situations.
- Engage in self-directed learning and continuous improvement.
Professional Relationship Skills
Students should:
- Listen actively and communicate respectfully.
- Demonstrate respect toward faculty, staff, classmates, clients, animal owners, patients, and community members.
- Advocate appropriately for animal welfare and client interests.
- Maintain professional boundaries with clients, animal owners, faculty, staff, and peers.
- Demonstrate empathy, compassion, and cultural sensitivity.
Interprofessional Skills
Students should:
- Work effectively as members of healthcare and veterinary teams.
- Maintain professional appearance and demeanor.
- Respect confidentiality and privacy requirements.
- Identify and address gaps in knowledge, skills, and professional behavior.
- Communicate professionally and avoid disrespectful, discriminatory, or derogatory language.
- Demonstrate integrity in all academic and professional interactions.
Time Management and Professional Responsibility
Students should:
- Arrive on time and be prepared for all academic and clinical activities.
- Meet deadlines and complete assigned responsibilities in a timely manner.
- Demonstrate reliability, accountability, and dependability.
- Be available and responsive to faculty, peers, clients, and clinical supervisors as appropriate.
- Manage competing responsibilities effectively while maintaining professional standards.
Professionalism is a core competency of the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program. Failure to demonstrate appropriate professional behavior may result in academic remediation, disciplinary action, referral to the Promotions and Progress Review Committee, or other actions deemed appropriate by the University.