Know your rights. Understand the process. We’re here to help.
If something doesn’t feel right, whether it’s related to instruction, a service, a staff interaction, or a college policy, you have the right to speak up. We will work with you to resolve concerns quickly, respectfully, and fairly. Here’s how to start.
Before you begin
- Please bring your complaint forward as soon as possible. Timely complaints are easier to address effectively.
- You’re welcome to bring a support person or advocate with you at any point.
- You will not face retaliation or discipline for making a legitimate complaint. Your privacy will be respected. We do not share complaint outcomes with other students or staff.
- You can withdraw a complaint at any time. If it’s formal, please let us know in writing.
- We are not able to act on anonymous complaints or those made by third parties without written permission.
Step 1: Informal approach (if you feel comfortable)
Often, concerns can be resolved by speaking directly with the person involved.
- Contact the individual and explain:
- What your concern is
- What outcome you’re hoping for
- The person should provide you with a written response
- If that doesn’t feel safe or doesn’t resolve the issue, reach out to their department leader or supervisor and explain:
- What the complaint is
- What you’ve already tried
- What result you’re hoping for
- You should receive a written response
If your concern isn’t resolved, or if you’d rather not go the informal route, you can move to a formal complaint.
Step 2: Formal approach
If informal steps don’t work, or if you don’t feel comfortable starting there, you can submit a formal complaint.
- Do this within 10 business days of the incident or the last written response
- Contact the appropriate leader for the area (such as the Associate Vice President, Dean, Registrar, Director, or Manager)
- Submit a written complaint that includes:
- Your name, program, and contact info
- What happened
- A description of the steps you’ve already taken (if any)
- The resolution you’re asking for
You’ll receive a written acknowledgment within 10 business days. The college will then review your complaint and provide a written response with a decision (within the limits of what we can share).
This decision is considered final, and the matter is closed.