Student Grievance

Rochester University, in the administration of discipline, guarantees procedural fairness to an accused person, whether the person is a Rochester University student, or staff/faculty member.  In pursuit of its policy of openness, accountability, and responsiveness to students, the institution provides established grievance procedures.  The President’s Office or the office of Dean of Academics shall maintain a file on each grievance reported, including the procedures followed, and the final disposition of the case.

Definition of Grievance

A grievance is a complaint arising out of any alleged, unauthorized, or unjustified act or decision by a student, faculty member, administrator, or staff person, which in any way adversely affects the status, rights or privileges of a member of the student body.  The burden of proof shall rest with the complainant. If a student has a grievance, and wishes it to be recognized as such, a written complaint must be submitted to Rochester University petition form, or in letter format.  The written grievance must clearly state the student’s name, the nature of the complaint, the name(s) of all parties directly involved in the complaint, and any appropriate documentary evidence.

Steps toward Resolution

Based upon the information presented in the grievance, steps toward resolution shall begin with informal discussions, headed by the Dean of Academics or Dean of Students.  Resolution shall be attempted at the lowest possible level.

Procedures for Official Hearings

If informal recourse fails to resolve the grievance within a reasonable time after filing, then the President of Rochester University will schedule a Student Grievance Committee meeting.  The voting members of this committee shall be comprised of the Dean of Academics, Dean of Students, and one faculty member who shall sit on the committee on a rotating basis. A copy of the grievance shall be given in writing to the person(s) against whom the complaint is brought.  The Committee shall review and consider documentary records, which relates to the case, including the grievance and its supporting documentation, and any documentary evidence or statement by the person(s) against whom the complaint was filed. Committee members shall arrive at a judgment in consultation among themselves. A majority vote of such members may make recommendation, as appropriate, for disciplinary actions, or for changes in policy.