The Honor Committee discussed the addition of the "Definitions" section to Honor by-laws at last night's meeting. While the addition was not officially accepted because there was not quorum, there was little contention over the new section.
The by-laws addition would not change any of the definition listed but would act as a resource for students.
"The new section to the by-laws took previous words that were interspersed [throughout the bylaws] and put it all together in one place," Honor Committee Chair Alison Tramba said.
Tramba added that all of the definitions previously existed, but they were scattered throughout the by-laws. The hope is that confused students can now refer to this section to better understand complicated words and their specific definitions with regard to honor.
For example, the word "trivial" might be confusing to the student not well-versed in Honor language. Now such a student could use the "Definitions" section to find that "trivial or triviality shall mean, as to an Alleged Honor Offense, that open toleration of the Act in question would not be consistent with the Community of Trust."
In addition to discussion of the "Definitions" section, the Committee heard officer reports, which reviewed last semester's accomplishments and looked toward the implementation of last semester's adjustments.
One of these changes is revised investigation procedures, also known as "transformation."
The new investigation structure will go into effect with this semester's trials. There will be careful review of how well the new procedures work in order to best safeguard the honor system, Tramba said. The hope is that the new changes will increase efficiency.
"All investigations should be done in 16 days," Vice Chair for Investigations Andrew Siegel said.
The Committee also addressed publicity for the recently-released faculty survey.
Tramba said she was "excited about the positive parts of the survey and how they can help us shape how we are going to respond to the less positive results."
The Committee plans to vote on the "definitions" by-law change at its next meeting.
Read More
U.Va. loses over $60 million in federal research cuts
By Bertie Azqueta | 2 days agoThe impacted grants include three from the NIH, seven from the NEH, one from the United States Agency for International Development and four from the State Department.
Department of Education reverses course, awards Federal Executive Institute to U.Va.
By Ford McCracken | 5 days agoThe ED had previously awarded the institute to Charlottesville City Schools.
Students reflect on the life and legacy of Pope Francis
By Bertie Azqueta | 6 days agoAt the University, students shared a range of perspectives on his legacy of reform, inclusivity and his impact on the global Catholic community.
