About ACVS
The American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS) sets the standards for advanced professionalism in veterinary surgery. The American Board of Veterinary Specialties recognizes ACVS as the veterinary specialty organization for veterinary surgery.
ACVS currently includes 2,519 Diplomates. Approximately 70 veterinarians earn their Diplomate credentials every year.
Updating ACVS Governance
ACVS is pursuing a governance structure that separates ACVS credentialing functions from membership activities to ensure autonomy in certification-related decisions.
For Diplomates: Certification Council Information Session on October 7
ACVS hosted an information session on October 7 at 7 pm (ET) that discussed the proposed Certification Council. The ACVS Board of Regents has approved the new structure, effective January 2027, pending approval of the revised Bylaws in 2026.
- Recording: October 7, 2025, information session regarding the proposed Certification Council
- Certification Council Charter (draft)
- Organization charts
- Application and selection process for council members
- Position descriptions for council members
Frequently Asked Questions
ACVS has developed frequently asked questions to help Diplomates, residents, and other stakeholders understand the full scope and process of this endeavor. ACVS understands additional questions will arise and will routinely update these frequently asked questions as more information becomes available.
Recent communication and related materials
September 16, 2025
- Related message to Diplomates from ACVS Credentialing Programs Director Kimberly Soehnlein
August 30, 2025
- Related message to Diplomates from ACVS Membership Director Adam Seery, CAE
July 31, 2025
- Related message to Diplomates from ACVS Membership Director Adam Seery, CAE
June 28, 2025
- Related message to Diplomates from ACVS Membership Director Adam Seery, CAE
May 31, 2025
- Related message to Diplomates from ACVS Membership Director Adam Seery, CAE
April 26, 2025
- Related message to Diplomates from ACVS Membership Director Adam Seery, CAE
March 14, 2025
- Related message to Diplomates from ACVS Nominating Committee Chair Ron McLaughlin, DVM, DVSc
January 21, 2025
- Related message to residents from Director of Certification Eric J. Parente, DVM, DACVS, and Credentialing Programs Director Kimberly E. Soehnlein
January 16, 2025
- Related message to Diplomates from ACVS CEO Ann T. Loew
