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Introduction
It’s inevitable that in any working and learning environment, conflict will arise. To assist in resolving differences, PLU has procedures in place to deal with conflict in appropriate ways. The University also has established a Dispute Resolution Committee (previously known as the University Grievance Committee) whose members provide mediation services and help people in the campus community improve their conflict resolution skills. PLU strongly encourages informal problem resolution whenever possible.
Informal Resolution
Students and members of the faculty and staff who have concerns or who have been sexually harassed are encouraged to contact any of the four sources noted below to seek resolution to their concerns. Any matter involving potential violations of the University’s policy on discrimination, sexual harassment or sexual misconduct must be forwarded to the Dispute Resolution Committee as soon as possible.
Complainant (person with concern)
Respondent
Immediate Supervisor or Department Head
Next higher administrative level above Immediate Supervisor or Department Head
Dispute Resolution Committee
Formal Resolution
If a complainant is not satisfied with the results of efforts to informally resolve his/her concern,
a written complaint may be filed with the Dispute Resolution Committee. In response to a formal written complaint, the following steps will be taken in accordance with the University’s policy statement.
| Action |
Maximum Time Frame |
| 1. Filing the Written Grievance Grievant files written complaint -- • If not satisfied with informal resolution • If no informal resolution was sought |
• 5 working days after informal process ends • 30 working days after alleged incident |
| 2. Determination of Whether Grievance is Subject to Procedures Dispute Resolution Committee determines if complaint falls within the purview of grievance procedures. |
• 5 working days |
| 3. Notification to Respondent Dispute Resolution Committee gives copy of complaint to respondent with grievance procedures. |
• 3 working days |
| 4. Written Response May Be Filed Respondent may file a written response to the allegations. |
• 5 working days |
| 5. Investigation of the Grievance Dispute Resolution Committee investigates complaint through personal interviews and review of related written documents. |
• 15 working days |
| 6. Preliminary Report and Recommendations Dispute Resolution Committee writes a report of investigation and recommendations for resolution and distributes copies to grievant and respondent. |
• 7 working days |
| 7. Rebuttal Statements Grievant and respondent may write rebuttal statements. |
• 5 working days |
| 8. Final Report and Recommendations Dispute Resolution Committee completes final report for distribution to grievant, respondent and appropriate supervisors. |
• 5 working days |
| 9. Review by Appropriate Supervisors Appropriate vice president, provost, or designee reviews report, any rebuttal statements, determines whether to accept recommendations, and begins implementation. |
• 10 working days |