Definitions

Grievance Process: a formal process through which a student or student group can appeal a decision made by a faculty or staff member that negatively affects a student/student group’s standing with or treatment by the College. A grievance or complaint may include disputes between a student/student group and an office of the College regarding the interpretation and/or application of the policies, procedures and legal obligations of the College, student governance issues, student activities, and other concerns that a student might present for redress.

Peer Observer: students filing a grievance may choose to have a peer observer present at grievance meetings as outlined below. The peer observer must be another student and may not be legal counsel or any other type of advisor. Peer observers may not speak or participate in the meetings but may take notes to share with the student after the conclusion of the meeting.

Designee: A person who has been officially appointed to act on behalf of someone else in their absence to carry out a responsibility.

RHEIs: Richmond Higher Education Institutions

Business Days: Defined as Monday through Friday when the College is not on break as stated on the published Academic Calendar.