Answers to Students Frequently Asked Questions about the Stetson University Honor System
What was the rationale behind adoption of a student-run Honor System at Stetson?
An Honor System is consistent with Stetson's to high standards in both values and academics. The Honor System entrusts students with a great deal of responsibility both for the quality of their education and for the ethical environment in which they live.
What do the students on the Honor System Council do?
Council members primarily educate the campus community about the Honor System, and about issues of academic integrity. They aim to motivate students to uphold high standards. A secondary responsibility is to serve as a peer hearing board in cases of alleged academic dishonesty.
I know (or suspect) that someone cheated. Do I have to report this to the Honor System Council?
Unlike many schools with longstanding, full-fledged honor codes, the Stetson Honor System does not require you to report a violation by a fellow student. You are encouraged to do so, however. In the long run we hope to develop a campus environment where ideals of academic integrity are so pervasive that students would naturally report the few, isolated violations that did occur. But we're not there yet.
Can I make this report anonymously?
We discourage anonymous reports. The Council may at their discretion act upon an anonymous report of an Honor System violation.
What can I do to show my support for the Honor System?
All incoming students sign the Honor Pledge as they enter the University. Students are encouraged to write the word "Pledged" before their name, when submitting papers and exams, as a symbol of their ongoing commitment to the principles of the Honor System.
How can I get involved?
The Honor System Council will partner with other students and student groups to present programming on academic integrity and ethical decision-making. If you're an RA, we'll gladly do a dorm presentation. If you're with a Greek organization, we'll gladly do a 'standard'. If you're with a student organization, we'll gladly work with you to co-host an event. Contact usso we can discuss necessary arrangements.
How do I join the Honor System Council?
Appointments to the Honor System Council are normally made in the Spring Semester, for Council service during the following academic year. Information about the selection process will be publicized at that time. Further information about the process, including application materials, is available here.
