The Class <strong>of</strong> 2007, after having formulated the code <strong>of</strong> ethics, placed their signatures to the formal document, signifying acceptance <strong>of</strong> and commitment to the tenants therein. The document has since been framed and presented to Dean Dolan. It will be placed on permanent display near the pediatric clinic on the first floor <strong>of</strong> the dental tower. 20 Gator Dentist Today Fall/Winter 2003 WHEREAS, the students comprising the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Florida</strong> <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Dentistry</strong> Class <strong>of</strong> 2007 fully recognize and appreciate the privileges and responsibilities bestowed upon us as we embark on our formal academic and clinical training in the field <strong>of</strong> <strong>dentist</strong>ry; and, WHEREAS, we further recognize that, as nascent health care pr<strong>of</strong>essionals, the potential consequences <strong>of</strong> our words and actions have become significantly amplified; and, WHEREAS, we therefore acknowledge that our individual and collective conduct in academic, clinical, and other public affairs must exceed generally accepted standards <strong>of</strong> business and personal conduct; and, WHEREAS, we accordingly intend, in promulgating this Code <strong>of</strong> Ethics, to identify, solemnize, and communicate specific ethical standards to which we will adhere as we proceed toward our shared objective <strong>of</strong> becoming full-fledged members <strong>of</strong> the dental pr<strong>of</strong>ession; BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED THAT: Class <strong>of</strong> 2007 Code <strong>of</strong> Ethics Academics: We the Class <strong>of</strong> 2007, strive to achieve and obtain the excellence in the education provided to us by the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Florida</strong> <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Dentistry</strong>. As pr<strong>of</strong>essionals it is <strong>of</strong> utmost importance to act toward each other with respect and consideration working with one another to achieve total success and promote unity. As a whole we will continue to practice honesty and a high level <strong>of</strong> integrity in our performance as future <strong>dentist</strong>s, whether in our classroom, clinics, or community. We pledge to apply what we learn in our future practice and seek the importance <strong>of</strong> continuing education. Patient Treatment: We acknowledge that patient treatment is a complex process influenced by many factors, including general health, patient opinion, provider recommendation, patient financial ability, and other considerations. We shall strive to provide such treatment that takes all <strong>of</strong> these factors into account and which places primary importance on the systemic health and subsequently the oral health <strong>of</strong> our patients. We shall treat our patients with respect, forging a relationship based on truth, directness, mutual consent and undivided attention. We pledge to strive for excellence in treating every patient and to provide as much care to as many patients as our capabilities allow. Pr<strong>of</strong>essionalism: As students <strong>of</strong> the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Florida</strong> <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Dentistry</strong>, we will strive to reach the highest standards <strong>of</strong> pr<strong>of</strong>essionalism. The ability to retain our leadership role in society depends largely on our willingness to abide by consensually recognized standards <strong>of</strong> conduct. Consequently, each <strong>of</strong> us must make a solemn commitment to observe certain pr<strong>of</strong>essional ethics and high standards <strong>of</strong> moral and ethical behavior. We are obligated to set an example for both the <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Dentistry</strong> and the dental pr<strong>of</strong>ession as a whole. The principles that we must adhere to include altruism, accountability, excellence, duty, service, honor, integrity, and respect for others. In recognizing that the dental pr<strong>of</strong>ession intrinsically involves service to others, we will seek to advance the cause <strong>of</strong> social justice within the <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Dentistry</strong> and in the pr<strong>of</strong>ession. These qualities must apply to all aspects <strong>of</strong> our lives, and include the relationships we have with fellow students, faculty members, patients, and the communities in which we live. Statement <strong>of</strong> Support: As the class <strong>of</strong> 2007 at the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Florida</strong> <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Dentistry</strong>, we avidly embrace the responsibilities that come with upholding the ethics <strong>of</strong> the dental pr<strong>of</strong>ession. We, therefore, commit ourselves to the above statements and principles in order to best represent our class, alma mater, and pr<strong>of</strong>ession. Code <strong>of</strong> ethics statement committee, (top row, L to R) Pr<strong>of</strong>essor Scott Tomar, Joe Richardson, Tony Mutchler, Pr<strong>of</strong>essor Henrietta Logan, Jashleen Bedi, Meenal Patel, Baokhuyen Vu. (Bottom row, L to R) Kelly Newnum, Jennifer Cameron, Bobby Ivanov and Esmeralda Chiang. (Photos - Daniela Aguilera)
We are proud to introduce the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Florida</strong> <strong>College</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Dentistry</strong> Class <strong>of</strong> 2007 Gator Dentist Today Fall/Winter 2003 21 21