AVMA’s Council on Education Cites Federal Pressure in Controversial Decision to Eliminate Diversity Reporting Requirements

In a move that has sent ripples through the veterinary education community, the American Veterinary Medical Association’s (AVMA) Council on Education (COE) announced on March 19, 2025, that veterinary colleges will no longer be required to report on or comply with accreditation standards related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).​ As women now comprise over 60% of veterinarians, and more than 85% of veterinary students, the Council on Education's rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion requirements raises questions about the profession's commitment to inclusivity.​

This decision aligns with a broader national trend, as educational institutions across the United States reevaluate DEI initiatives in response to recent federal directives. Notably, a February 14, 2025, "Dear Colleague" letter from the U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights advised institutions to reassess race-based policies and programs to ensure compliance with civil rights laws .​CTE Policy Watch+2Inside Higher Ed+2American Council on Education+2

The COE's letter emphasized that while executive orders provide guidance and do not carry the force of law, they reflect the policy positions of the federal government. Consequently, the COE stated it would no longer enforce DEI-related accreditation standards but would continue to monitor the legal and educational landscape to adjust its standards as necessary.​

This shift has sparked debate within the veterinary community. Some educators and professionals express concern that removing DEI requirements may hinder efforts to foster a more inclusive and representative profession. Others argue that accreditation standards should remain focused on academic quality and outcomes, free from sociopolitical influences.​

The COE's decision mirrors actions taken by other institutions. For instance, Northeastern University recently rebranded its Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion to "Belonging at Northeastern," reflecting a shift in focus . Similarly, Missouri State University dismantled its DEI department earlier this year .​Buildremote

As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, veterinary colleges and professionals will need to navigate these changes carefully, balancing compliance with federal guidance and the ongoing pursuit of diversity and inclusion within the field.​

The veterinary profession in the United States exhibits a significant lack of racial diversity compared to the broader U.S. population.​Time

Veterinary Profession Demographics:

• White: Approximately 83.7% of veterinarians identify as White. ​Zippia

• Hispanic or Latino: About 5.7% of veterinarians are Hispanic or Latino. ​Zippia

• Asian: Roughly 4.7% of veterinarians identify as Asian. ​Zippia

• Black or African American: Only 1.4% of veterinarians are Black or African American. ​Zippia

• American Indian and Alaska Native: A mere 0.2% of veterinarians identify as American Indian or Alaska Native.​Zippia

U.S. Population Demographics (2022 Estimates):

• White (non-Hispanic): 60.2%​

• Hispanic or Latino: 19.0%​Financial Times

• Black or African American: 12.2%​Wikipedia

• Asian: 5.9%​

• American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.0%​

• Two or more races: 12.5% ​Wikipedia

Comparison and Implications:

The data reveals that while non-Hispanic Whites constitute about 60.2% of the U.S. population, they represent approximately 83.7% of the veterinary profession. Conversely, minority groups are significantly underrepresented in veterinary medicine compared to their proportions in the general population.​

This disparity underscores the need for continued efforts to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within the veterinary field to better reflect and serve the diverse U.S. population.​

To voice your concerns, contact COE@avma.org, your AVMA representative and your state representatives.