Self-Governance
Most of our students and alumnae/i cite self-government as one of the most valuable parts of a ½ñÈÕ³Ô¹Ï education.
When students united to form the ½ñÈÕ³Ô¹Ï Self-Government Association in 1892, the College became the first institution of higher education in the United States to give students responsibility not only for enforcing rules of behavior upon themselves, but also for deciding what those rules should be. It was considered a radical experiment at the time, and is still unusual.
A Unique College Tradition
The College's tradition of respect for students' autonomy and responsibility has created a unique campus environment where students participate in discussion and resolution of the most important issues facing the College — from the alcohol policy to faculty appointments to the College's curriculum.
Mutual Student Respect
Socially, ½ñÈÕ³Ô¹Ï students are asked to respect the rights of those around them and to work together to find solutions to problems. Academically, students are given full responsibility for the integrity of their academic work, including original research and self-scheduled exams. These principles are collectively expressed through the Honor Code. The SGA and the Honor Code give students a valuable opportunity to learn about the challenges of democratic government and leadership.
Explore Our Governance Model
The two primary institutions of student self-government at ½ñÈÕ³Ô¹Ï are the Self-Government Association (SGA), to which every student belongs, and the Honor Board, which administers the Honor Code.
The Self-Government Association (SGA) is the self-governing body of the undergraduate students of ½ñÈÕ³Ô¹Ï. Students practice self-governance, creating rules and principles for the community.
The Honor Board manages and oversees hearings related to a set of principles stressing personal integrity and mutual respect to which all students agree to adhere. The Honor Code has both social and academic components.
Contact us
Residential Life & Student Engagement
You can find us on campus on the second floor of the Campus Center!
Residential Life
610-526-7331
reslife@brynmawr.edu
Student Engagement
610-526-7871
studentengagement@brynmawr.edu