Gwynedd Mercy University
AY2020-2021 / Undergraduate Academic Catalog
Complaint Procedures
Academic Complaint Procedure The purpose of the University ’ s Academic Complaint procedure is to ensure that students have the opportunity to raise concerns which have remained unresolved after previous attempts to do so , and that these concerns will be dealt with in a just and fair manner . Student life-related complaints are handled through the University ’ s Student Complaints procedure , located in Volume VI , Section 6.7 of the Gwynedd Mercy University Policy Manual .
An academic related action or decision is eligible to be addressed through the 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 the 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 .
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