Complaint Procedure

All students are encouraged to first utilize informal discussion to resolve any problems encountered at the College.

1. When appropriate, the student is encouraged to talk directly to the faculty or staff member prompting the complaint in an effort to resolve the issue.
2. If the student prefers to talk to someone other than the direct faculty or staff member involved, they are encouraged to present the complaint to their assigned academic advisor or case manager.

Complete the informal complaint form below and make an appointment with your assigned academic advisor at www.kish.edu/advising.

Each student, faculty member, administrative and staff member has an obligation to resolve problems fairly and informally through discussion between the aggrieved student(s) and the specific College person immediately involved with the problem. Although students are strongly encouraged to use informal discussion for problem solutions, it is not a requirement for the filing of a formal complaint.

Submit An Informal Complaint

Students should always first attempt to resolve issues through an informal process with the faculty or staff person. If a student is unable to resolve the issue informally, they can choose to file a formal complaint.

1. Students must first consult with the Director of Student Success before filing a written complaint. 
   • Where a previously established grievance procedure already exists, the Director will refer the complaint to the appropriate process.
   • In cases of alleged illegal discrimination based on race, gender, religion, age, marital status, creed, or disability, the Director will contact the Vice President of Student Services prior to advising the student about a course of action.
2. After consultation with the Director of Student Success, the student may submit to the Director a written statement of the problem in order to continue the formal resolution process. 
   • The written statement must be signed and dated and must clearly state the nature and basis of the alleged offense, the name(s) of the person(s) committing the alleged offense, the specifics of the incident(s) in question, and the names of any known witnesses.
   • The Director will submit the complaint to the immediate supervisor, who will conduct an investigation and respond in writing to the student with a copy to the Director within 30 days of the filing date of the complaint. An extension for additional review may be granted by agreement of the Director.
3. If the student feels that the decision of the immediate supervisor is arbitrary or capricious or if he/she/they has/have new evidence to present, he/she/they may appeal the decision in writing to the next level of supervision or an individual designated by the Director of Student Success within 10 days of the decision. 
   • A copy of the appeal must be submitted to the Director.
   • Upon appropriate review, the appellate determination must be communicated in writing to all parties involved within 30 days of the date of the appeal.
4. The decisions of the Director of Student Success or appointed designee regarding review and appeal shall be final.

As appropriate, the Director of Student Success may designate different persons to review cases or consolidate complaints when such action is consistent with administrative efficiency and a fair resolution of the problem. In cases where the complaint itself is frivolous, harassing in nature, or not specific, the Director may refuse to process the complaint. Written notification will be provided.

Submit a Formal Complaint