Gwynedd Mercy University
AY2021-2022 Undergraduate Academic Catalog
misapplication of the University attendance policy , 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 School may extend this time limit at his or her 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 Dean of the appropriate School . 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 know ; 4 . State how the decision or action was unfair and / or harmful to the complainant ; 5 . State how the respondents are responsible for the action or decision ; and 6 . State the requested remedy .
The Dean will review the request . If it is clear that the complaint has not been filed within the time limit , or pertains to a matter not applicable under this procedure , or comes from a person without the right to issue a complaint , the Dean will dismiss the case and notify the complainant in writing . If the complaint is not dismissed , the Dean will review the information provided , gather any additional information required , and formulate a decision within fifteen ( 15 ) business days of receipt of the request . If the respondent is the Dean , the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs will appoint another University administrator to issue a decision . Once a decision has been made , it will be recorded for the University record , and the complainant and respondent ( s ) will be notified of the decision in writing .
Final Appeal If the resolution provided by the Dean is not satisfactory to the complainant or respondent , that person may file a request for reconsideration via a final appeal . Such a request must be submitted in writing to the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs within five ( 5 ) business days of receipt of the original decision . The Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs will review the information provided concerning the complaint , the request for reconsideration , and details regarding the complainant ’ s desired
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