May 15, 2021

The Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges is changing its name to the American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges.

The shift in wording is meant to recognize the AAVMC’s international member institutions and correctly indicate that these members are a part of an American-based association. The change also highlights the AAVMC’s role as an international organization.

“Our international members told us that they wanted us to retain the word ‘American,’ indicating their association with the American accreditation system,” said Dr. Andrew T. Maccabe, CEO of the AAVMC, in an April 9 press release. “Because of that preference, the term ‘international’ was not included in the new name, even though institutions throughout the world are eligible to qualify for membership.”

The AAVMC began considering a name change when international colleges and schools became eligible for accreditation by the AVMA Council on Education. Currently, 22 of the 55 AVMA Council on Education–accredited veterinary colleges are outside of the U.S. The AAVMC also has 12 collaborative and provisional members from outside the U.S. that are not accredited by the COE.

The new name will not include a brand change and will preserve the abbreviation “AAVMC.” The change was effective as of April 9.