Grievance Procedure

Relationships can be complex, and, given human nature, there can be miscommunication and the like during advising or counseling sessions. If you have a grievance or complaint about services received at the Counseling and Advising Center (CAC), we ask that you please follow this procedure:

Step 1: Discuss with CAC Staff Member

Meet with the staff member with whom you have a grievance and attempt to resolve the dispute with a good-faith discussion.

Step 2: Discuss with Associate Dean of Student Life

If you feel that the dispute was not fairly and/or completely resolved during the good-faith discussion, or if you feel uncomfortable speaking with the staff member with whom you have a grievance, please call the CAC receptionist at 617 747-2310 to schedule a meeting with Toni Blackwell, associate dean of students.

Step 3: File a Formal Grievance with the Office of the Vice President of Student Affairs

If your grievance has not been adequately resolved after the first two steps, you may file a formal written complaint with the Office of the Vice President of Student Affairs.

All grievances/complaints requiring formal resolution must be filed within six months of the actual incident that prompted the grievance/complaint.

Note: The time limits mentioned in this policy are intended as reasonable amounts of time for specific activities to occur. The appropriate college officials may adjust the timelines at their discretion, while attempting to ensure a fair and equitable process for all parties.