In response to: Princeton’s Return to Proctored Exams Reflects Changing Times
Current issue
July 2026
Architect Tod Williams ’65 *67 reflects on the Obama Presidential Center; rain and revelry at Reunions.
Architect Tod Williams ’65 *67 reflects on the Obama Presidential Center; rain and revelry at Reunions.
The Class of 2030 has a unique opportunity — restoring honor to Princeton. By their conduct, they can convince the administration that Princeton students can again be trusted with proctor-less exams.
I have faith in this class. I don’t think they will make excuses. They know that AI is only the latest in cheating enabling technologies that have tempted Princetonians — just like photocopying machines, computers, the internet, and smart phones. They know that Princetonians observed the Honor Code during the tough job market of the Depression.
When almost a third of a class self-report cheating, it becomes clear that honesty has become a lifestyle choice rather than a core value. “Blaming it on AI” deflects from the need to address a far deeper problem.
Class of 2030: I hope you take up this challenge and by your graduation, I can read about the restoration of the original Honor Code.