Brent Savoie, MD, JD, Associate Professor in the Department Radiology, has been appointed Faculty Adviser of the Honor Council of Vanderbilt University School of Medicine (VUSM). He succeeds Kate Payne, JD, RN, NC-BC, who held the position for several years until her unexpected passing earlier this year.
The Honor Council is a student-led group, comprised of three student co-chairs and representation from each of the School of Medicine’s degree programs, that is responsible for upholding the VUSM Honor Code, described as follows by the Honor System:
“Vanderbilt University students pursue all academic endeavors with integrity. They conduct themselves honorably, professionally, and respectfully in all realms of their studies in order to promote and secure an atmosphere of dignity and trust. The keystone of our honor system is self-regulation, which requires cooperation and support from each member of the university community.”
As Faculty Adviser, Dr. Savoie will assist the Honor Council in evaluating evidence of Honor Code violations, assuring against false accusations and following guidelines for determination of guilt.
“We recently lost Kate Payne who has served in this role for many years and was an incredible mentor and guide for our students,” said Amy Fleming, MD, MHPE, Associate Dean for Medical Student Affairs and Professor of Pediatrics, Medical Education and Administration. “This role is a key and impactful place where she will be greatly missed, but I am confident Dr. Savoie will do a tremendous job.”
Having earned his medical degree from VUSM, as well as a law degree with an emphasis on health and human rights law from the University of Virginia, Dr. Savoie is well-positioned to counsel student leaders of the Honor Council in matters pertaining to the Honor Code.
“An Honor Code is an essential component of any educational program because it fosters accountability and professionalism,” said Dr. Savoie. “I am excited to support our outstanding student-led Honor Council as they work to maintain academic integrity and trust in the School of Medicine.”
The VUSM Honor Council is one of eight graduate- and professional school-specific Honor Systems at Vanderbilt University.
