A grievance is a work-related problem or condition that an employee believes to be unfair or inequitable. It is hoped that any such grievance will be settled informally in conversation between the employee and the Department Head, Group Chair, Dean of the College or the Director of Human Resource Services (depending on the individuals involved).
If informal methods do not resolve the problem, faculty and staff have the right to initiate formal grievance procedures. Complaints against staff members should be brought to the Director of Human Resource Services, complaints against faculty members should be brought to the Dean of the College. If requested, the Director of Human Resource Services will provide guidance for staff members in bringing complaints against faculty members and the Dean of the College will provide guidance for faculty members in bringing complaints against staff members.
Grievance procedures will include written filing of the grievance, notification of and discussion with all persons involved, notification of dates and investigation processes if necessary, orderly presentation of evidence, and written notification of the grievance resolution. Decisions about complaints against faculty members will be made by the Dean of the College. Decisions about complaints against staff members will be made by the Director of Human Resources.
Complaints against the Director of Human Resources or the Dean of the College may be brought to the Vice President for Administration and the investigation and decision will be made by him/her.
Appeals shall be directed to the President or to the President's designated representative(s). If the President was the subject of the complaint, appeals shall be directed to the Chairman of the Board of Trustees.