In the rapidly evolving landscape of Generative AI (GenAI) within higher education, Michigan State University emphasizes the importance of ethical foundations. The blistering pace of GenAI development, deployment, and adoption threatens to outpace policy and review practices. By embedding ethics at the core of our GenAI initiatives from the outset, we have constructed a resilient yet adaptable structure capable of adjusting to technological breakthroughs and societal shifts. Prioritizing human dignity, fairness, and inclusivity ensures that AI advancements align with our core values. This ethical framework guides decision-making and fosters a culture of continuous discovery and critical thinking. By embedding ethics at the core of our AI initiatives, we safeguard our community and harness AI's transformative power to enhance teaching, learning, and research experiences, positioning our university to adapt to future challenges.