NW Valley Times

Grand Canyon University (GCU) has launched its annual Integrity Week, an initiative organized by the Honors College and the National Society of Collegiate Scholars. The event aims to promote integrity among students through a series of programs and activities.

"Integrity is perhaps one of the most essential values and qualities in all aspects of life," stated Anna Cofrancesco, Honors College Program Manager. She emphasized the importance of modeling integrity for students and bringing it to their attention.

As students approach midterms, the college and GCU's chapter of NSCS are reminding them about academic honesty through workshops, informational sessions, and social events. The campaign encourages practicing integrity not only in academics but also in professional, extracurricular, and personal relationships.

During the Integrity Week Fair at the Quad, organizers encouraged participants to sign an Integrity Banner as a commitment to authenticity, innovation, and honesty. Various groups such as the Canyon Center for Character Education and Associated Students of GCU provided resources for student involvement.

Senior Alexis Foreman expressed that integrity involves doing the right thing even when unobserved. Junior Eli Riney added that seeking answers to ethical questions embodies integrity.

Kendall Smith, Honors College Program Coordinator, described signing the banner as a self-contract to act with integrity daily. This year's talks will cover topics like identity development, AI's impact on academics, faith in growth, and building professional relationships.

Students can attend both virtual and in-person workshops during the week. Online sessions include "Navigating AI in Education" and "Integrity and Ethics with AI." An in-person session titled "Righteousness and Justice Presentation" will take place on Thursday.

"This campaign does not only remind students 'to not cheat,' but rather goes further into having and displaying integrity on different fronts," said Cofrancesco.