Issue link: http://denverseminary.uberflip.com/i/1025150
2018-2019 Student Handbook 38 Depending on the severity of the accusations, students have the option of seeking an informal resolution to concerns that arise. An informal resolution consists of communicating with the other party about the concern in question and attempting to resolve the matter without formal intervention on behalf of the Seminary. Students are not obligated to attempt an informal resolution before filing a formal grievance and should only proceed with an informal resolution if they feel safe doing so. Students engaging grievances through an informal process are encouraged to keep documented records, including a detailed summary of the situation and dates and times of communications and outcomes. Students who wish to file a formal grievance regarding the behavior of a faculty or staff member or fellow student should use the following procedures. These procedures are not intended to create a contract, but to establish a process. The Seminary reserves the right to alter or change these processes as it deems appropriate while preserving due process and the integrity of the case. Grievances should be put in writing with all relevant materials attached so as to be addressed in a reasonably timely manner. Formal Grievance Procedure Involving a Faculty Member: 1. Students who wish to file a grievance pertaining to a faculty member must submit a complaint and provide appropriate supporting material to the Provost's Office. 2. The Provost will review the submitted material as quickly as is reasonably possible and may choose to address the matter personally or submit it to the Faculty Concerns Committee. After being reviewed and no other information is deemed necessary for a decision, an outcome will be rendered, and the student will be notified. If additional information is required, the Provost or Faculty Concerns Committee will seek consultation with the appropriate parties. (Note: the Faculty Concerns Committee does not meet during the summer or intersession.) 3. If the student wishes to appeal the decision of the Provost or Faculty Concerns Committee, he/she may do so by submitting a petition to the Provost's Office within three (3) business days of receiving the rendered outcome, thus requesting a review by the Executive Leadership Council of the Seminary. In the appeal the student must articulate the reason(s) why he/she believes the decision should be readdressed based upon the following criteria: i. Substantive errors in due process ii. Presentation of new evidence/information that was not in the original submission iii. Other outstanding factors. 4. The Executive Leadership Council will review the appeal at their next meeting and make a final ruling on the matter. The student will be notified accordingly within the next 1-3 business days. Formal Grievance Procedure Involving a Staff or Other Student: 1. Students who wish to file a grievance pertaining to a staff member or fellow student must submit a complaint and provide appropriate supporting material to the Dean of Students. 2. The Dean of Students will review the submitted material as quickly as is reasonably possible and may choose to address the matter personally or convene a hearing panel. 3. Depending on the severity and seriousness of the grievance, the Dean of Students will notify the responding party that a grievance has been filed against them. Before proceeding with this step, however, significant consideration is given to the safety, security, and comfort level of the accusing party. If it is determined that safety or security could be compromised, or if