Throughout history, examples of the unethical conduct of human subjects research have shaped how we view not only the field of research but how we view the ethical compass of humankind.  The government and the human protections profession were responsive to these unethical events and promulgated regulations and expectations for excellence in human subjects research. These regulations have provided parameters which in the ideal world will prevent history from repeating itself. However, has dependence on the regulations alone reduced our ability to make ethical decisions without them? This talk will explore the complementary nature of compliance and ethics and how we move forward with excellence using these two concepts in concert.