Appeals and Grievances Policy

 

The department of athletics is committed to providing student-athletes with clear directions and written procedures for all possible grievances and appeals. The information below directs student-athletes according to the grievance or appeal topic.

 

The following topics for possible grievances or appeals apply for all university students:

            •  sexual harassment

            •  discrimination

            •  conflict of interest

            •  equal opportunity complaints

            •  code of conduct issues

            •  issues of assigned course grade

            •  residency appeals

 

Any grievances or appeals in these areas may be brought by the student-athlete to the attention of either the executive associate athletics director or the senior woman administrator for review.

 

As appropriate, the executive associate athletics director or the senior woman administrator will work with the appropriate campus officer who oversees the relevant complaint-type for all students and will provide the student-athlete with written indication of the necessary steps to be taken in that case. The athletics officer will remain in contact with the campus officer and the student until the case is resolved.

 

If the topic or issue is concerned with

            •  disciplinary actions by coaches,

            •  requests to transfer, or

            •  reduction or cancellation of athletics aid,

then the procedures conveyed below should be followed.

 

Disciplinary Action

Within the department of athletics, disciplinary action may be taken by a coach for a student-athlete’s failure to comply with training/conduct rules. Student-athletes may appeal a disciplinary action by contacting the executive associate athletics director or the senior woman administrator, depending on the sport involved, to discuss the situation. Information is compiled from the student-athlete(s), coach, and other involved parties, if applicable, before making a decision. If the student-athlete wishes to appeal this decision, the athletics director will hear the appeal and issue a final decision.

 

Request to Transfer

Student-athletes desiring to transfer may nor may not be granted permission.  If a coach denies permission, the executive associate athletics director discusses the situation with the coach. The executive associate athletics director and the athletics director then make the final decision depending on the circumstances.  The Transfer Release Committee will conduct a hearing for any student-athlete whose request is denied and who wishes to appeal.

Reduction or Cancellation of Athletics Aid

A student-athlete whose athletics aid is reduced or canceled for the next academic year receives official notification from the financial aid office. Appeal information is provided at that time. A student-athlete wishing to appeal a reduction or cancellation decision must notify the financial aid office in writing within two weeks after receipt of the notification letter. Prior to the beginning of the academic year, a hearing is conducted by the Student Scholarships, Fellowships, and Financial Aid Committee. The decision of the committee is final.

 

A student-athlete whose athletics aid is reduced or canceled during the period of the award is also provided written notice of an opportunity for a hearing. The appeal hearing is scheduled as soon as possible after receipt of the student-athlete’s request to appeal.