Student Grievance Policy

Student–Administration Communication Policy

The College is aware that extremes and rigidity may inhibit open communication and problem-solving teamwork. Our goal is to provide flexibility, which encourages growth in leadership potential and individual student development. We also desire an environment that supports student’s rights and freedoms, while pursuing an education that is distinctively Christian.

To achieve these goals, the following model for Student-Administrative communication provides guidelines about whom to contact with specific concerns. It also provides guidelines about how that contact should be initiated.

Acceptable Forms of Communication:

1. RESIDENCE HALL PERSONNEL 

   The Resident Advisor on a residence hall floor and the Resident Director of the residence hall are available to provide information, support or counseling with regard to most problems a resident may encounter.

2. STUDENT LIFE OFFICE
   1. Students may bring any matter of concern to the attention of the appropriate Student Life staff member by making an appointment.
   2. In cases where a student desires to show the number of students in support of the issue, a student may be allowed to apply for the opportunity to gather a support list.
3. STUDENT GOVERNMENT
   1. Students may bring a matter to the attention of Student Government through the members of the Executive Officers or Senate Representatives.
   2. Significant matters brought to Student Government are discussed and proposed to the Assistant Dean of Student Engagement, who in turn brings up the matter before the administration (ie. Dean of Students) for its consideration.
4. FACULTY OR ADMINISTRATIVE COMMITTEES
   1. One or more students are appointed by the appropriate administrator to serve on faculty and administrative committees.
   2. In some cases, student candidates are nominated by the Nominating Committee and reviewed by the Faculty.
   3. Any student or group of students having a particular concern should submit the matter to Student Government or to the student member of the committee charged with the oversight of the matter.
   4. Student Government itself may initiate consideration of any matter of concern and refer that matter to the appropriate committee along with a statement from Student Government.
5. ACADEMIC PERSONNEL
   1. Students should talk to their instructor during the instructor’s regular office hours. This may occur by taking a moment or two following a class to make an appointment for a later time. A schedule of faculty office hours is available from the Academic Services Office.
   2. Talk to your advisor.
   3. Talk to the appropriate department head by making an appointment.
6. BUSINESS OFFICE

   You may consult the Business Office regarding financial and other business matters.

7. SENIOR ADMINISTRATORS

   After all of the above steps have been taken, you may request referral to the Provost.

Unacceptable Forms of Communication:

Several opportunities are available for students to voice opinions, ideas and concerns. Some forms of personal expression are not considered appropriate in a Christian environment.

Specifically, the College does not condone picketing, sit-ins, petitions, walkouts or any form of disruption to legitimate and authorized college activities. These forms of expression are forbidden as a means of communication for the college community. These modes of expression imply a duress and pressure, which are not consistent with the atmosphere that Rochester College seeks to maintain. Students who engage in such activities will, therefore, be subject to dismissal from the College.