If a student has a grievance involving a faculty member that does not pertain to a grade appeal, which is a separate process, then the student may submit a written complaint to the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA). All complaints will be handled with strict confidentiality.
Process:
- Committee Formation
- Upon receiving the complaint, the VPAA will convene a committee composed of the VPAA, faculty representatives, and academic affairs staff.
- Initial Meeting with the Student
- The committee will meet with the student to understand the nature of the complaint and gather relevant details.
- Meeting with the Faculty Member
- The committee will then meet with the faculty member to hear their perspective and provide an opportunity to respond.
- Investigation (if needed)
- If the committee determines further inquiry is necessary, it may request additional documentation or evidence from relevant parties.
- Deliberation and Determination
- After reviewing all the information, the committee will reach a decision regarding the complaint.
- Communication of Decision
- The VPAA will formally communicate the committee’s decision and any resulting actions or resolutions to both the student and the faculty member.
Confidentiality and Recordkeeping
The entire process will be conducted with discretion to protect the privacy of all individuals involved. A record of the complaint and its resolution will be securely maintained by the Office of Academic Affairs.
For the Student Grievance Policy of a non-academic nature, please consult the Student Handbook under “Reporting General Complaints.”
For the Policy on Grade Appeal or Change of Grade, please consult the College Catalog under “Change of Grade” and “Grade Appeal Process.”