The Auburn Creed

Mr. George Petrie wrote The Auburn Creed on November 12, 1943. It remains one of our Auburn University traditions and is at the center of my values and beliefs:

I BELIEVE that this is a practical world and that I can count only on what I earn. Therefore, I believe in work, hard work.

I BELIEVE in education, which gives me the knowledge to work wisely and trains my mind and hands to work skillfully.

I BELIEVE in honesty and truthfulness, without which I cannot win the respect and confidence of my fellow men.

I BELIEVE in a sound mind, in a sound body and a spirit that is not afraid, and in clean sports that develop these qualities.

I BELIEVE in obedience to law because it protects the rights of all.

I BELIEVE in the human touch, which cultivates sympathy with my fellow men and mutual helpfulness and brings happiness for all.

I BELIEVE in my country, because it is a land of freedom and because it is my own home, and that I can best serve that country by "doing justly, loving mercifully, and walking humbly with my God."

And, because Auburn men and women believe in these things, I believe in Auburn and love it.

David Baucom

My Values - Commitment

The third value that I closely adhere to is commitment. To be committed is to effectively and efficiently use our public resources; consider the full impact of your actions; once you make a decision, commit to it and execute; continually strive to improve; promote teamwork, improvement, and innovation; and speak up to offer ideas and encourage others to do the same.

Honor, Courage, and Commitment. More than just words. They are my closely held values.

David Baucom

My Values - Courage

Having courage means you face challenges with determination and strength of character. You make the best choice amongst difficult alternatives; reach out to colleagues and supervisors to assist in decision-making; speak up to avoid improper actions; report unethical conduct; continually strive to improve; and remember, you are responsible and accountable for your decisions and actions.

Certainly, it's not always the easy path, but having the courage to stand tall when tested makes you the stronger person. It's the right thing to do.

David Baucom

My Values - Honor

I served almost 35 years as an officer in the United States Navy, so naturally my personal values are our Navy's values of Honor, Courage and Commitment. This post is about my value of Honor.

Serving with Honor means that you always act with honesty and truthfulness; be dependable; avoid conflicts of interest; maintain the trust and respect of your superiors, peers, and subordinates; and remain dedicated to justice.

David Baucom

Moral Excellence (Part Three)

This is the third and the last of the principles of moral excellence that I carry around on that little plastic card in my wallet.  This principle is about making ethics a part of all decisions and behaviors.  In other words, doing what is honorable.

-Work together with openness, honesty, and transparency.
-Be honest, work hard, protect the company's assets.
-Know the limits of your duties, responsibilities, and discretion.
-Do not use your position for private gain.
-Act impartially; do not give preferential treatment to anyone.
-Avoid conflicts of interest between your position and outside activities and organizations.
-Avoid any actions that create the appearance that you are violating law or ethical standards.

Now, that's an important principle!

David Baucom

Moral Excellence (Part Two)

The second principle listed on that little plastic card I carry in my wallet is about obeying authority.  Its two tenants are: (1) respect and obey the law; and, (2) carry out duties and responsibilities in accordance with legislation, regulations, policies, and directives. In other words, doing what is right.

This principle reminds me of the Scout Oath and Scout Law I learned many years ago. It still applies today.

David Baucom

Moral Excellence

I've carried this little plastic card around in my wallet for years.  And, throughout my career in the United States Navy, I have referred to it often and worked hard to achieve its values. The card is entitled: "Principles of Moral Excellence."

The first paragraph is about respecting the dignity of all persons.

-Treat every person with respect.
-Appreciate differing viewpoints and opinions.
-Contribute to a healthy work environment.
-Set the example.

I think the world would be a better place if we all followed these four simple goals.

David Baucom