In 1993, a committee was formed by then-Interim Provost Martin Lazerson to revise the discipline charter and guidelines for academic integrity. The UHC was set up with the aims of promoting academic honesty throughout the university community as well as to advise the provost on matters pertaining to academic integrity. According to Magids, the UHC represents the first implementation of any new form of honor code at Penn. Since then, the UHC have striven to achieve the goals of academic honor by educating fellow students via various campaigns and presentations. Today, the UHC is chaired by Lauren Davidson and Alan Bell.
Members serve renewable one year terms, which expire at the end of each calendar year.