Student Complaint Policy

Student Complaint Policy*

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to clarify expectations for dealing with student complaints.

Policy Statement

Eastern Mennonite University welcomes open communication from students regarding its policies and practices. Student feedback helps administrators determine effectiveness and clarify and improve processes and procedures. If a student has a complaint, such complaint should be communicated to the administrator responsible for the area of the complaint. Most complaints can be dealt with through informal communication between the parties.

When a student wishes to lodge a more formal complaint in writing, the Student Complaint Form at http://www.emu.edu/about/student-complaint-form/ is to be completed. When it is submitted, it will be received by the Assistant to the President who will forward the complaint to the administrator who is most appropriate to respond to the complaint.

The administrator will respond in writing, within ten business days. The administrator will submit copies of the complaint and response to the president’s office for filing and monitoring.

In the event that a student is not satisfied with the response to the complaint, the student may choose to follow the grievance procedure for resolution.

The university recognizes its obligation to ensure that students who make complaints do not suffer adverse treatment as a result of the complaint. In the event that a student alleges such treatment, the student shall be referred to the grievance procedure for resolution and reconciliation.

Responsible Party

Responsibility for this policy lies with the President.

Policy Review

This policy is to be reviewed every five years.

Distribution

Faculty/Staff Handbook
Student Handbook
Approved by President's Cabinet, May 21, 2003

Revised March 12, 2007

Revised February 11, 2009

Updated March 2015

* Formerly Open Communication Policy