Statement by President Crow

Statement by Dr. Michael M. Crow
President Arizona State University

As Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. wrote in the Morehouse College campus newspaper in 1947: “We must remember that intelligence is not enough. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education.” This sentiment, which Dr. King so eloquently articulated as a young man based upon his personal experience in college, is reflected today in the ASU Student Code of Conduct:

“The aim of education is the intellectual, personal, social, and ethical development of the individual. The educational process is ideally conducted in an environment that encourages reasoned discourse, intellectual honesty, openness to constructive change, and respect for the rights of all individuals. Self-discipline and a respect for the rights of others in the university community are necessary for the fulfillment of such goals. The Student Code of Conduct is designed to promote this environment at each of the state universities.”

In evolving a new model for inclusive 21st century higher education, Arizona State University takes to heart its essential responsibilities to educate young adults and to support their character development as part of the learning process. Teaching and nurturing integrity within our diverse university community is a significantly complex challenge, but one to which we are wholly and unwaveringly committed. Universities bear an intrinsic responsibility to advance the intellectual growth of their students through learning experiences that result not only in a diploma, but also in the vital maturation of their individual character. 

Accordingly, the ASU Student Code of Conduct sets forth the standards of conduct expected of students who choose to join our university community. At ASU, students who violate these standards will be subject to disciplinary sanctions in order to promote their own personal development, to protect the university community, and to maintain order and stability on our campuses.