Students should always first attempt to resolve issues through an informal process
with the faculty or staff person. If a student is unable to resolve the issue informally,
they can choose to file a formal complaint.
- Students must first consult with the Director of Student Success before filing a written
complaint.
- Where a previously established grievance procedure already exists, the Director will
refer the complaint to the appropriate process.
- In cases of alleged illegal discrimination based on race, gender, religion, age, marital
status, creed, or disability, the Director will contact the Vice President of Student
Services prior to advising the student about a course of action.
- After consultation with the Director of Student Success, the student may submit to
the Director a written statement of the problem in order to continue the formal resolution
process.
- The written statement must be signed and dated and must clearly state the nature and
basis of the alleged offense, the name(s) of the person(s) committing the alleged
offense, the specifics of the incident(s) in question, and the names of any known
witnesses.
- The Director will submit the complaint to the immediate supervisor, who will conduct
an investigation and respond in writing to the student with a copy to the Director
within 30 days of the filing date of the complaint. An extension for additional review
may be granted by agreement of the Director.
- If the student feels that the decision of the immediate supervisor is arbitrary or
capricious or if he/she/they has/have new evidence to present, he/she/they may appeal
the decision in writing to the next level of supervision or an individual designated
by the Director of Student Success within 10 days of the decision.
- A copy of the appeal must be submitted to the Director.
- Upon appropriate review, the appellate determination must be communicated in writing
to all parties involved within 30 days of the date of the appeal.
- The decisions of the Director of Student Success or appointed designee regarding review
and appeal shall be final.
As appropriate, the Director of Student Success may designate different persons to
review cases or consolidate complaints when such action is consistent with administrative
efficiency and a fair resolution of the problem. In cases where the complaint itself
is frivolous, harassing in nature, or not specific, the Director may refuse to process
the complaint. Written notification will be provided.