Case Study: South Ridge College “The Exchange”

Abstract

This case study examines ethical misconduct, power dynamics, and institutional responsibility in higher education through a scandal at South Ridge College involving inappropriate relationships between faculty and students. South Ridge College promoted itself as a small institution where close faculty-student relationships fostered mentorship, academic success, and a strong sense of community. However, the same culture of closeness and informality contributed to blurred professional boundaries and ultimately led to serious ethical violations. Investigations revealed that several faculty members had engaged in personal relationships with students they were responsible for teaching, advising, and evaluating. Some of these students received unusually high grades, research opportunities, and letters of recommendation, raising concerns about favoritism, academic integrity, and abuse of power. The case explores the ethical implications of faculty-student relationships, particularly the power imbalance that exists even in situations perceived as consensual. It also examines institutional failures, including unclear policies, lack of training, inadequate reporting mechanisms, and administrative reluctance to address rumors and early warning signs. The scandal resulted in reputational damage, legal risk, student protests, and calls for leadership accountability.