"As a member of the Rhodes community, I pledge I will not lie, cheat, or steal, and that I will report any such violation that I may witness, and that I will uphold the values of Truth, Loyalty, and Service."
For more than a century, the Rhodes Honor System has encouraged students to fully express their individuality, while living in harmony with the broader community. Every entering student at Rhodes College is expected at the time of matriculation to sign a pledge promising to uphold the Rhodes Honor System and accepting the jurisdiction of the Honor Council.
In 2026, the Honor Council amended the language of the Honor Code pledge to include upholding the college's values of "Truth, Loyalty, and Service." Laurel Phillips '26, Honor Council president for the academic year 2026-2026, has written a reflection on the meaning and value of the Honor Code pledge and the impetus behind the amended language. You can read her reflection here.
The Honor Council implements and interprets the Honor System, investigating any violations of lying, cheating, or stealing, and enforces penalties accordingly. A student found in violation of the Honor System will be disciplined by the Council, which can issue outcomes extending to expulsion from the College. The Council fosters honorable conduct in all areas of academia and campus life and is committed to the values of truth and honesty. It is governed by the Honor Council Constitution.
The Honor Council is composed of four (4) elected representatives in the First-year, Sophomore, Junior, and Senior classes. The officers of the Council include the President, Vice President, and two secretaries. The officers are not elected representatives; these positions are voted on and/or appointed by current members of the Council.
Policies and procedures are detailed in the Honor Council Constitution.
If you have a suspected violation to report, please contact Richard D. Adams, Associate Dean of Students, at 901-843-3815, or report your concern.
Honor Council Representatives
President: Isis Williams
Vice President: Rachel Clarke
Office of Community Standards Administrator (OCS) of the Honor Council: Richard D. Adams, Associate Dean of Students
For more information, visit the Office of Community Standards.