Gwynedd Mercy University 2025-2026 University Catalog 46
COMPLAINTS, ACADEMIC
NOTE: For University Complaint Procedures, see https:// www. gmercyu. edu / about- gmercyu / fastfacts / consumer-information # Complaint % 20Process
Academic Complaint Procedure
The purpose of the University’ s Academic Complaint procedure is to ensure that students have the opportunity to raise concerns that have remained unresolved after previous attempts to address issues, and that these concerns will be dealt with in a just and fair manner. An academic-related action or decision is eligible to be addressed through the Academic Complaint procedure only if it involves a violation of federal, state, or local law or a misapplication or misinterpretation of University policy. The validity of University policies themselves may not be challenged through this process. Examples of academic complaints include inconsistent application of class syllabi policies, etc. In addition, this procedure may not be used to resolve complaints regarding: 1. Claims based on purchases or contracts; or 2. Claims against a University employee on matters that are unrelated to the employee’ s job or role at the University; or 3. Grade grievances.
The procedures set forth below may be used by individuals bringing complaints(“ complainants”) who are enrolled as students at Gwynedd Mercy University. The complainant must be the alleged victim of unfair treatment; a complaint cannot be filed on behalf of another person. The existence of this procedure does not prohibit complainants from also filing claims in other forums to the extent permitted by national, state, or local law or applicable accrediting agencies.
The formal resolution process described below must be initiated within ten( 10) business days of the decision, action, or events giving rise to the complaint. The Dean of the appropriate College may extend this time limit at their discretion if good cause is shown.
Informal Resolution Before proceeding to the formal resolution process, complainants are expected to have discussed the concern with the person they allege to have caused the complaint( the“ respondent”). This requirement may be waived if the complainant has a reasonable basis for believing that such a discussion could result in physical injury, severe emotional distress, or discrimination. If the respondent does not respond to the complainant’ s attempts at discussion, or if an equitable solution cannot be found, the case will proceed through the formal resolution process outlined below.
Formal Resolution If informal resolution is not successful, the complainant should file a written request for review with the College Dean. The request must: 1. Provide the names of all respondents; 2. List the law or University policy that has allegedly been misapplied or misinterpreted, if known; 3. State how the decision or action was unfair and / or harmful to the complainant; 4. State how the respondents are responsible for the action or decision; and 5. State the requested remedy.