The much debated, highly controversial, and somewhat confusing Columbia Honor Code is officially happening. CCSC had something to say about it; SGA had something to say about it; Bwog had something to say about it. Yet during its turbulent gestation, the honor code remained mysterious in its actual content, leading to rooms of people arguing about something that they didn’t really know much about. Well, the mystery is over: in a press release from CCSC, OJA, and the Office of Academic Affairs, the honor code has been officially instated…for CC. Students will be given the chance to sign individual pledge cards and thus make a commitment to academic integrity; the cards will be displayed in Butler for all the world to see. For the class of 2017, this event has already happened — but upperclassmen will be able to do the same in the future at their own year’s designated events.

The full press release below:

The Columbia College Student Council is proud to introduce the Honor Pledge to CC students for this academic year. The institution of this honor code reflects years of conversations among students, faculty, and administrators regarding the importance of academic integrity to maintaining the high level of scholarly work produced at Columbia. CCSC presents the Honor Pledge, with support from the Office of Judicial Affairs and the Office of Academic Affairs, in the hope of actively engaging students in the ongoing dialogue about academic integrity. As a part of this student driven initiative, all CC students will be given an opportunity to make a public commitment to uphold these community values, beginning with the first year class at the Columbia College Academic Assembly on Tuesday, August 27th. CCSC leaders Nora Habboosh (Academic Affairs Representative) and Bob Sun (Vice President for Policy) will speak to the incoming first year class about the purpose of this Honor Pledge, then invite all students to sign individual pledge cards which will be collected, bound, and put on display in Butler library to serve as a reminder of the commitment students have made to each other. CCSC will host similar events for the classes of 2016, 2015, and 2014 where returning students will have the opportunity to sign the pledge and reflect on the significance of this commitment to themselves, each other, and the community at large.