Annual Conference Code of Conduct  

The Society for Vascular Ultrasound (SVU) is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and professional environment for all participants at the SVU Annual Conference. This Code of Conduct applies to all attendees, speakers, faculty, exhibitors, sponsors, volunteers, staff, and guests participating in conference-related activities, whether in person or virtual. 

Our Commitment 

SVU values respectful dialogue, scientific exchange, and professional collaboration. All participants are expected to contribute to a welcoming environment that supports learning, networking, and the advancement of the vascular ultrasound profession. 

This Code of Conduct applies to all official conference activities, including educational sessions, workshops, exhibit hall interactions, social events, networking functions, and digital platforms associated with the conference. 

Expected Conduct 

Participants are expected to: 

  • Treat all individuals with respect and professionalism. 
  • Engage in constructive, collegial dialogue, even when perspectives differ. 
  • Respect personal, cultural, and professional boundaries. 
  • Follow all conference policies, venue rules, and applicable laws. 

Unacceptable Conduct 

SVU does not tolerate harassment, discrimination, or disruptive behavior of any kind. Unacceptable conduct includes, but is not limited to: 

  • Harassment, intimidation, or discrimination based on race, ethnicity, nationality, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, professional role, or any other protected characteristic. 
  • Inappropriate or unwelcome verbal comments, physical contact, or gestures. 
  • Bullying, stalking, threats, or coercive behavior. 
  • Disruptive behavior that interferes with sessions, speakers, or the experience of other participants. 

Additional Participation Guidelines 

In addition to the standards outlined above, all participants in the SVU Annual Conference are expected to adhere to the following: 

  • Recording & Distribution:
    Recording, photographing, streaming, or transmitting educational sessions in any format is prohibited unless expressly authorized by SVU and the presenter. 
  • Commercial Promotion:
    Presentations, postings, and messages may not include promotional materials, special offers, job postings, product announcements, or solicitation of services outside of approved exhibitor and sponsorship activities. SVU reserves the right to review content for compliance and to remove inappropriate material. 
  • Use of Educational Content:
    Conference presentation materials may not be reproduced, distributed, or repurposed without the express permission of the presenter and SVU. 
  • Virtual Platform Conduct:
    Participants may not record, copy, or take screenshots of Q&A sessions, chat discussions, or other interactions on the virtual conference platform. 

Content Standards for Presentations 

To ensure a professional, respectful, and inclusive learning environment, the following are not permitted in any SVU Annual Conference presentations or materials: 

  • Slurs, derogatory language, or jokes related to race, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or any other protected characteristic 
  • Stereotyping or content that devalues individuals or groups 
  • Political or ideological advocacy that undermines the dignity or rights of others 
  • Nudity or sexually explicit language, imagery, or content 
  • Profanity or content inconsistent with a professional healthcare and scientific audience 

Enforcement 

SVU reserves the right to take any action deemed necessary and appropriate in response to violations of this Code of Conduct, including removal from the SVU Annual Conference without warning or refund. 

SVU Harassment Policy 

The Harassment Policy of the Society for Vascular Ultrasound (“SVU”) and the SVU Foundation applies to Officers, Directors, committee and subcommittee members, task force members, and any other SVU and SVU Foundation volunteers; full-time, part-time and contractual employees; SVU members; and attendees, speakers, and/or exhibitors at in-person or online events hosted or sponsored by SVU or the SVU Foundation (“the covered parties”).  Read the Harassment Policy here. 

SVU Privacy Policy 

This privacy policy outlines our practices regarding the collection, use, and disclosure of Personal Information. SVU is the controller and is responsible for your Personal Information. By using the Site, engaging with SVU services, or interacting with SVU in any other way, you acknowledge and agree to the collection and use of Personal Information as described in this Policy. Read the Privacy Policy here.  

SVU Annual Conference Age Policy 

Individuals under the age of 16 are not permitted to attend SVU Annual Conference education sessions, exhibit halls, or other social events. Only registered meeting attendees and those with a daily guest/exhibit badge will be allowed in the exhibit hall. 

Infants (12 months or younger) who need to be with their parent will be allowed in the exhibit hall provided they are being carried by an adult (no strollers). 

Cancellations & Refunds 

All requests for refunds and cancellations must be in writing and sent via email to mmclean@svu.org. SVU does not accept phone cancellations. Refund requests received before June 26, 2026, are subject to a $100 cancellation fee. No refunds will be given after June 26, 2026. A credit will be given toward a future SVU educational program to be used within 12 months. 

Questions 

Contact SVU with any questions at info@svu.org