Student Grievance Procedures Policy

Scope

Students

Policy Statement

Syracuse University is committed to providing an environment where the individual rights of all persons are protected and where concerns regarding these rights are promptly dealt with and resolutions are reached in a fair and just manner. Syracuse University’s Student Grievance Procedures ensure that all students and student organizations are afforded an opportunity to resolve their grievances in a timely manner.

Any student or recognized student organization may file a grievance in writing with the staff of the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities, 310 Steele Hall, 443-3728, when it is alleged that a right enumerated in the Statement of Student Rights and Responsibilities has been violated by any agent of the University.

The Office of the Senior Vice President for Student Affairs will act as a resource center for students unless otherwise involved in the case, at which time another resource will be provided.

Every effort will be made to resolve grievances informally, i.e., by mutual agreement of all parties involved. Students are encouraged to attempt to resolve their grievance within the administrative structure of the organization, or with the agent, through mediation and/or consultation, before filing a grievance.

If a suitable solution cannot be reached through ordinary means, the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities will evaluate whether the student has followed all appropriate procedures. Thereafter, the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities will make a good faith effort to assist the student in resolving the grievance informally and confidentially.

If informal resolution of the grievance is not possible and no other suitable agency exists for resolution of the grievance, the senior vice president and dean of student affairs will determine whether it is appropriate to convene an Ad Hoc Grievance Committee. The committee will consist of at least five (5) members and be selected by the senior vice president and dean of Student Affairs from students, faculty, and staff of the University.

The Ad Hoc Grievance Committee will employ the procedural guidelines in place within the University Student Conduct System. Decisions of the Ad Hoc Grievance Committee will be forwarded to the chancellor of the University with recommendations for further action.

Policy Administration

Date: August 2005