Governance Change Website | Frequently Asked Questions | Information Sessions

Greetings!

ACVS thanks all Diplomates engaged throughout ACVS’s proposed governance change process. Your questions, input, and participation have informed this effort as ACVS outlines ways to modernize the governance structure while ensuring it continues to serve the College and its members effectively.  

Due to the governance change, ACVS bylaws require revision. The complete proposed bylaws are now ready for member review. 

Along with the full proposed bylaws, we are providing a supporting document that walks through each section of the current Constitution and Bylaws, the proposed revision, and the rationale for the change. These materials are designed to be read together and to provide transparency into both what is changing and why. For reference, a link to the Certification Council Charter is also included. The Charter is an important companion document.

• Proposed ACVS Bylaws (PDF)
• Side-by-Side Comparison & Rationale (PDF)
• Certification Council Charter (PDF)
• Current ACVS Constitution and Bylaws (PDF)

These documents are also available on the governance change page of the ACVS website.

Beginning today, ACVS is opening a 30-day comment and feedback period, which will run through February 28, 2026. During this time, Diplomates are invited to share questions, comments, and feedback using the following online Smartsheet form, which will aid ACVS in organizing Diplomates' input:

• Submit feedback

To further support your review, ACVS will also host a live information session on Tuesday, February 3 at 7 pm (ET). During this session, we will walk through the proposed bylaws in full and answer member questions. A recording will be available for those not able to attend live.

• Register for the February 3 information session

Throughout the comment period, we will share updates and respond to common questions in the Governance Updates and Questions discussion group on ACVS Connect. Diplomates are highly encouraged to join the group and follow the conversation as the review process moves forward:

• Join the Governance Updates and Questions group in ACVS Connect 

Thank you again for your continued involvement and commitment to ACVS. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Adam Seery, ACVS's membership director, at aseery@acvs.org or in the Governance Updates and Questions discussion group in ACVS Connect. 

Sincerely,

Bryden J. Stanley, BVMS, MS, MANZCVS 

Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Surgeons 

Chair, ACVS Board of Regents 

The American College of Veterinary Surgeons is committed to and values diversity, equity, and inclusion and embraces the perspectives that it generates.

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