Demographics and Perceptions of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO) Members.

ACVO should implement concrete DEI policy and educational changes to address member concerns.

This cross-sectional survey study examined diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) perceptions among American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO) members. Of 249 respondents (43.9% response rate), approximately half supported DEI training engagement, and 68.7% desired DEI-focused educational sessions, particularly webinars. While most members felt supported by ACVO, concerning findings emerged: 28.5% felt ACVO undervalued diversity, 23.8% questioned equity commitment, and 26.5% felt inclusion was lacking. Personal discrimination reports included sex (8.3%), political views (7.1%), and mentor/residency location (6.3%), with witnesses reporting higher rates of colleague discrimination. The study identifies a gap between overall member support and specific concerns about organizational DEI practices, recommending institutional policy and educational changes to foster a more inclusive environment within veterinary ophthalmology.

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