Honor System Council
The Stetson University Honor Council is a completely student-led organization dedicated to upholding academic integrity on campus. We take pride in fostering a culture of honesty, responsibility, and fairness in academics.
Our council investigates allegations of academic dishonesty, educates the student body on academic integrity, and works to maintain a community built on trust. Through peer-led hearings, educational initiatives, and campus-wide advocacy, we ensure that every student understands the importance of academic integrity and their role in upholding it.
Faculty should use the Honor System in dealing with apparent breaches of academic integrity in their classes. While some members of the faculty may prefer to handle matters (especially minor matters) internally, the resulting lack of central reporting would allow a student to cheat in several classes without any repercussions for multiple offenses. Students are strongly encouraged, though not required, to report any violations of which they are aware.
Violations include, but aren't limited to: Giving unauthorized help to another student for a test or assignment Plagiarism Using falsified evidence or material Submitting the same paper in different classes twice Destroying or making inaccessible academic resource material
To report a violation to the Honor System Council, use the Academic Honesty Reporting form.
The Honor Council supports faculty in promoting academic integrity through clear policies, educational materials, and reporting procedures. We provide guidance on syllabus statements for AI usage and handling academic misconduct cases, along with classroom materials. Explore our resources to uphold a culture of honesty in your classroom.
Guides for professors
- Guide to Academic Violations
- Handbook
- Guide to Exam Cheating Prevention
- Forms of Academic Dishonesty
Classroom PowerPoints
These are PowerPoints that can be presented in your classroom. If you would like an Honor Council member to present it, please contact the Honor Council President.
- Introduction to the Honor Code and Honor Council
- Introduction to Academic Resources at Stetson
- Guide to AI use for students
Classroom activities
These are classroom activities that can be done in your classroom. These are case studies and are just a few samples from our collection. You can request one on a specific topic if needed.
If you would like an Honor Council member to present it, please contact the Honor Council President.
We have resources to help you navigate ethical scholarship, avoid academic misconduct, and strengthen your academic skills. Whether you need guidance on proper citation, AI usage in the classroom, or academic support services, we’re here to help. Explore the tools and support available to ensure your academic journey is both honest and successful.
Academic Resources
- Students’ Guide to AI in Classes
- Academic Resources
- Plagiarism and citation
- How to make a study guide
Academic violations and investigations
- Esther Colston, President
- Alex Douma, Vice President of Administration
- Mia Martinez, Vice President of Marketing
- Khushi Patel, Vice President of Education
- Niki Taropawala, Treasurer
- Kyarra de Chabert
- Levi Cheptoyek
- Daniel Coursen
- Abigail Denton
- Diana Fudge
- Celine Jose
- Tory Wojnarowski
- Kira Zaitsava
- Odiya Smith
The Stetson University Honor Council was founded as a student-led initiative and has remained a unique and integral part of the university ever since. In 2002, the Student Government Association approved the creation of an Honor System and Council to uphold academic integrity on campus. After a three-year trial period, the student body and faculty voted in 2006 to ratify the Honor System as a permanent institution at Stetson.
Unlike most honor councils nationwide, Stetson’s remains fully student-led, with students overseeing investigations, hearings, and educational outreach. The council operates independently, reporting directly to the University Provost rather than any faculty committee, reinforcing its commitment to student governance and academic fairness.
Over the years, the Honor Council has evolved to address new challenges, including the role of AI in academia and emerging forms of academic dishonesty. Through continuous adaptation and dedication, we strive to protect and promote a culture of integrity, trust, and accountability at Stetson University.
President: Esther Colston - [email protected]
Advisor: John Rasp - [email protected]