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EDITOR'S NOTE What We Promised Lesley G. King, MVB, Diplomate ACVECC, ACVIM (Small Animal Internal Medicine), & ECVIM (Companion Animal) T he transition from spring to summer means it is graduation time at veteri- nary schools. As I participated in commencement at University of Pennsylvania, I listened to the new graduates take the Veterinarian's Oath, which reminded me of the promise each of us made: Being admitted to the profession of veterinary medi- cine, I solemnly swear to use my scientific knowledge and skills for the benefit of society through the protec- tion of animal health and welfare, the prevention and relief of animal suffering, the conservation of animal resources, the promotion of public health, and the advancement of medical knowledge. I will practice my profession conscientiously, with dignity, and in keeping with the principles of veterinary medical ethics. I accept as a lifelong obligation the continual improvement of my professional knowledge and competence. Our Role in Society Listening to the speakers made me think about society's view of veterinarians as professionals and role models and how many become leaders both in and outside the veterinary profession. One speaker discussed the con- cept of servant leadership, a management philosophy created by Robert Greenleaf. Although it is controversial, there are many aspects of servant leadership that we can consider and possibly incorporate into our practices and day-to-day living. Exploring Servant Leadership The servant leader places his or her main focus on peo- ple, looks to their needs, helps them solve problems, and encourages personal development. This style of leader- ship is participatory rather than authoritative—employees are involved in decision-making and responsibility is del- egated and respected. The servant leader's first priority is to enable employees to realize their full potential. The top 10 characteristics of the servant leader include: 1. Listening 2. Empathy 3. Healing 4. Awareness 5. Persuasion 6. Conceptualization (personalized vision and focus on goals) 7. Foresight 8. Stewardship (responsible management for future generations) 9. Commitment to the growth of employees 10. Ability to build a strong community within and out- side the organization. I'm sure we can all recognize the way in which leaders who exhibit these characteristics have inspired us and earned our loyalty and respect. Confident Leaders Needed However, the concept of servant leadership doesn't apply to every situation. I'll be the first person to agree that leadership style may need to change depending on the circumstances. Some situations call for an authorita- tive approach and simply can't be handled in a participa- tory way: sometimes the "boss" just has to make a deci- sion, realizing that it's impossible to please everyone all of the time. Nobody ever said being a leader was easy! Remember the Oath So, new graduates, congratulations! You are entering into an unbelievable profession that opens up an expan- sive world of possibilities for your future. I have never regretted, not for a minute, my choice of veterinary medicine. You have worked extremely hard and earned the privilege and responsibility of being called "Doctor." Always do your best to be a positive role model and leader—treat others as you would like to be treated, no matter what professional situation you find yourself in. And above all, remember what you promised when you recited the Veterinarian's Oath. —Lesley King, Editor in Chief CORRECTION The article Physical Rehabilitation for Veterinary Practices from the March/April issue incorrectly stated that the Canine Rehabilitation Institute (CRI) certification programs are offered at the University of Florida. The actual course locations are: UÊCoral Springs Animal Hospital, Coral Springs, FL, coralspringsanimalhosp.com UÊCanine Rehabilitation and Conditioning Group, Broomfield, CO, dog-swim.com UÊFitzpatrick Referrals, Surrey, England, fitzpatrickreferrals.co.uk July/August 2012 Today's Veterinary Practice 7