Honor System
The Honor System at the University of Mary Washington is a deeply cherished tradition founded upon the personal integrity of each individual member of the University community. It requires that all members of this community conduct themselves honorably at all times and in all dealings with others. This shared commitment to high ethical standards creates an atmosphere of trust and respect vital to the unique sense of community, which characterizes the institution.
Each faculty member agrees to accept and abide by the Mary Washington Honor System when accepting his or her original faculty appointment or election at the University. It is the responsibility of all faculty members to stay familiar with the principles and operating procedures of the Mary Washington Honor System and to support it.
Each student upon entering the University signs a pledge to observe the Honor System. Therefore, the work of all University of Mary Washington students is predicated on the Honor System and the faculty member in his or her relationship with students is expected to act within this framework. A student's word of honor is to be accepted, and all statements about academic matters made to a faculty member are covered by the Honor Code.
Faculty members should make clear in their assignments for pledged work the extent to which they consider help from (or collaboration with) others to be legitimate. It is expected that faculty members will conduct tests and examinations according to the expectations of the Honor System. Faculty members need not remain in the classroom during tests and examinations; they must indicate to the students where they may be found if needed, and they may return to the classroom briefly for consultation.
Violations of the Honor Code are not to be condoned or ignored by faculty; however, neither are they to be dealt with by unilateral faculty action (such as by simply lowering the student's grade). All alleged Honor Code violations are to be reported to and handled by the Honor Council, assuring due process and fairness. A faculty member who has reason to suspect a violation of the Honor System should consult the Honor Constitution for reporting procedures.
Willful failure to support and abide by the Honor Code may serve as a basis for termination of a faculty member.