Grievance Procedure for Students (Policy 5.17)

Students having complaints, grievances or other concerns for which they are unsure of the applicable process or reporting mechanism may file such complaint, grievance, or concern with the Dean of Students. The Dean of Students will communicate with the student to gain an understanding of the matter at hand.

• If the Dean of Students determines that another college procedure governs the situation (e.g., grade appeal, sexual misconduct, etc.), the Dean of Students will act as a facilitator to ensure the information is directed to the appropriate college official.
• If the Dean of Students determines that no other college procedure governs, the Dean of Students will informally work with the student, and others as necessary, to reach a resolution of the situation.

If the student and Dean of Students are unable to resolve the situation, the student may file a formal written grievance with the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs. The Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs will conduct an investigation into the matter, taking all steps deemed necessary based on the circumstances and will issue a written decision to the student.  The Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs’ decision is final and not subject to further appeal.

If this process does not resolve the complaint, students may choose to file a complaint through one of these external agencies:

• Missouri Department of Higher Education: http://dhe.mo.gov/documents/POLICYONCOMPLAINTRESOLUTION-reviseddraft.pdf
• The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association: https://www.ncahlc.org/HLC- Institutions/complaints.html