Chapter 4. Affirmative Programs

4.5. Filing a Complaint

Informal Complaint: An informal process which serves to formulate appropriate resolutions at the most local level. Informal resolutions should be explored first. This type of complaint usually means education and clarification more often than discipline actions.

Formal Complaint: If all informal efforts have been exhausted without a resolution, a formal process is considered. Also, if either party prefers a formal process first, this option is available.

Retaliation against anyone who files a claim, who is named as a respondent, or who participates in the resolution of a case, regardless of the outcome of the case, is expressly prohibited and could lead to discipline and possible dismissal.

Deliberate filing of a false claim is expressly prohibited and could lead to discipline and possible dismissal.

Confidentiality is expected to the fullest extent possible from all parties who are involved in a claim, directly or indirectly. Further information about discriminatory or harassing behaviors that are prohibited are available from the Affirmative Programs Office by calling 7-3310.

Complaints regarding discrimination should be directed to the Affirmative Programs Office. Concerns about events or an employment process may also be brought to the office to discuss before filing an official complaint. This can help to determine which offices to involve and which actions to take for the most effective resolution. General complaints should be directed to the Human Resources Department. Menus of options may be explored. The Affirmative Programs Office can clarify issues and explain formal and informal procedures.

All members of the University community are strongly encouraged to promptly report actions of discrimination or harassment by any member of the faculty, staff, or student body. The individual reporting such actions need not be the target of harassment, but may simply be a witness to such action.

A complaint may be brought forward as a charge by submission in writing. The accused will be informed of the allegations and may choose to respond verbally or in writing. The Affirmative Programs Office will coordinate time lines for progress updates and results in the case as needed.

The Administration may determine that corrective action needs to be taken at any point in this process, regardless of agreement of all the parties.

To file a complaint do the following:

1. Contact the Affirmative Programs Office either verbally or in writing. Describe the situation and give details in the description. The Affirmative Programs Office can be contacted by calling 7-3310 or the office is found in Room 207 of the Administration and Student Services Building. Off-campus and after-hour meetings may also be arranged, if needed.



2. With the help of the Affirmative Programs Office, determine whether to follow an informal complaint procedure or a formal complaint procedure. Refer to the complaint procedures found on the Web site http://www.admin.mtu.edu/aao/complprocedures.htm.


NOTE: An informal complaint can be made verbally or in writing. A formal complaint must be made in writing to the Affirmative Programs Office.


3. Keep the situation confidential.