As a hall, we believe that values are an integral part of being able to live as a student and
being able to live in a residence system. We believe that values play a role in determining
principles and standards of behaviour and one’s judgement of what is important in life. As
Founders Hall, we stand firmly in the values of:
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Founders Gentlemen - The forbearing use of power does not only form a touchstone,
but the manner in which an individual enjoys certain advantages over others is a test
of a true gentleman. The power which the strong have over the weak, the employer
over the employed, the educated over the unlettered, the experienced over the
confiding, even the clever over the silly--the forbearing or inoffensive use of all this
power or authority, or a total abstinence from it when the case admits it, will show the
gentleman in a plain light. The gentleman does not needlessly and unnecessarily
remind an offender of a wrong he may have committed against him. He cannot only
forgive, he can forget; and he strives for that nobleness of self and mildness of
character which impart sufficient strength to let the past be but the past. A true man of
honor feels humbled himself when he cannot help humbling others.
Balance - Balance is about being able to live a life that is holistic, where every part of
your life is weighed out to suit what is more important to you. This means that having
balance is being able to evaluate what is important in life such academics, social life,
sports, having a healthy mind and body, being a participant in res activities and giving
time to each aspect of your life in order of what is important to you. Balance is key to
being able to cope with student life and balancing your time and assessing one’s
priorities.
Community - In a residence and hall, we live in a community where we have to
always maintain respect and understanding for ourselves and each of the members of
your hall and res. Community is a broad based vision for campus life that allows us to
learn and grow while feeling included, as a valued member of our hall. Community is
also about helping our surrounding community in Grahamstown through community
engagement projects we do throughout the year.
Integrity - Integrity is knowing the difference between what is right and wrong. This
is being able to see that choosing to do what is right, is important in being able to
respect the rules and each member of the hall. Integrity is adhering to moral and
ethical principles and having virtue.
Excellence - Excellence is doing things to the best of your ability. It is not about
being perfect and outstanding, but doing a job or task as well as you possibly can do
it. It is about giving your best every day and getting better every day. It is about
moving from good to great and improving on your actions each day.
These values reflect our appreciation of diversity and our commitment to a rich communal
life within the academic context of the University. Our involvement in the Grahamstown
community grows every year with service taking on a higher profile. Community also
includes our commitment to family – both family at home and the “family” that we become
for each other through the joys and challenges of University life. The students in the hall
belong to greater communities beyond the walls of the hall, including spiritual communities
of several different faiths. We value each individual’s contribution and respect one another’s
culture and beliefs. Our leadership development strategies are being strengthened, along with
recognition for individual achievements outside of the academic arena. Our vision is to be a
home where each individual feels valued and respected, and is able to excel in their chosen
field of study, while growing as a complete