Expressing Concerns

If a student experiences any type of microaggression, conflict, harassment, or discrimination, we want to address it as quickly and effectively as possible.  

In general, conflict is best resolved in the moment and at the lowest level, that is, if a faculty or staff member or fellow student says or does something that is offensive, it is best to tell them so in the moment, allow them to respond and come to a resolution. 

Obviously, graduate students don't always feel safe in confronting others, particularly those who maintain positions of power in the program, either as departmental officers or as teachers and advisers. It is important for you to know that university policy expressly forbids retaliation against complainants, and that no faculty member in the department (no matter their rank or administrative role) would ever be allowed to jeopardize a student's degree progress or financial support as a result of that student's having, either informally or formally, expressed concern about their behavior. 

Complaints, Concerns, and Suggestions

If graduate students are unwilling or unable to address their concerns directly, they should always feel free to bring the matter to their adviser, the Director of Graduate Studies, or the Department Chair. One potential reason for doing so is that university policy on discrimination takes more seriously patterns of behavior than individual instances. It is difficult to establish patterns if no one ever comes forward. 

If you want to provide a complaint, express a concern, or offer a suggestion anonymously, and would like it to be handled within the department, please fill out and submit this form. 

Students can also consult neutral parties outside of the department by contacting the Student Conflict Resolution Center, which offers advice as well as formal and informal conflict resolution. Find more information about how they handle student conflict here: Addressing Student Academic Complaints

In addition to the SCRC, students may contact the Equal Opportunity and Title IX Office, one purpose of which is to respond to complaints (which can be made anonymously) about discrimination against protected groups (as defined by Federal Law). Like the SCRC, their staff is also available for consultation.