Strength and Honor - Virtūs et Honos
Strength and Honor—Virtūs et Honōs—is the guiding motto of Honor Society®. These words capture the spirit of excellence, integrity, and personal development that we strive to uphold in everything we do.
The motto reflects both the historic tradition of honor societies and the modern values that drive our community today.
The Meaning Behind the Motto
Derived from Latin, Virtūs conveys strength, courage, and excellence, while Honōs represents honor, respect, and character. Together, the phrase symbolizes the qualities we aim to cultivate in our members:
-
Strength of character
-
Commitment to learning
-
Integrity in action
-
Dedication to personal and community growth
These attributes have been celebrated for centuries and remain foundational to the Honor Society® mission.
Strength & Honor in Today’s World
Honor Society® embraces this timeless motto as a reminder that true achievement is built on resilience, ethical conduct, and service to others. Our role is to provide resources, opportunities, and a supportive community that encourages members to develop these qualities.
We empower members to grow into leaders who exemplify:
-
Purpose
-
Professionalism
-
Authenticity
-
Respect
-
Lifelong learning
While we do not promise outcomes, we offer the tools, environment, and support that help members pursue their goals with confidence.
How the Motto Connects to Our Mission
Strength & Honor is woven into every part of the Honor Society® experience—from recognition and academic engagement to leadership development and community involvement.
Our members gain access to:
-
Scholarship resources
-
Career and professional development tools
-
Networking opportunities
-
Events and learning programs
-
Member benefits that support personal and academic growth
These resources are designed to help members explore opportunities and strengthen their skills.
As our society grows, defining and living our core values becomes increasingly important.
Strength & Honor supports our value framework, which informs our culture, programs, and decisions.
For more details, please see our Core Values page.
The concept of honor societies have a proud history spanning more than 200 years. Honor Society® honors that tradition by recognizing achievement, supporting development, and inspiring members to pursue their goals with purpose.
Learn more About Honor Society® here.
HONOR CODE — Our Commitment to Excellence
The Honor Code reflects our commitment to upholding a culture of respect, professionalism, and integrity. These guidelines exist to protect the well-being of our members and the reputation of the organization.
Key Expectations for Members
1. Professional Communication
Use respectful, appropriate language in all verbal and written interactions.
2. Appropriate Conduct & Presentation
Whether in person or online, maintain the same level of professionalism you would uphold in academic or workplace settings.
3. Respect for Other Members
Ridiculing, embarrassing, or publicly insulting another member is strictly prohibited.
We promote a culture of support, encouragement, and leadership.
4. Responsible Use of Social Media
Members may express their opinions freely, but when referencing Honor Society® or participating as a representative, posts should reflect our values.
This includes appropriate attire, tone, behavior, and respect for the community.
Our Honor Code encourages members to live the ideals of Strength & Honor both within and outside the Society.
Honor Society® — Strength & Honor in Action
Strength and Honor aren’t just words—they’re a commitment to character, community, and growth.
Honor Society® is proud to support members as they build these qualities and pursue their ambitions with integrity and resilience.
