College President Complaint

A formal procedure is established for handling complaints against the president of the college. This policy ensures that complaints are addressed in a consistent, fair and timely manner. The policy applies to all students, faculty, staff, and other stakeholders who may have concerns regarding the college president's actions, behavior, or performance.

Procedure

Types of Complaints

• Misconduct or unethical behavior: Includes violations of institutional policies, ethical standards, or law.
• Performance issues: Concerns regarding the president's professional conduct or ability to perform duties.
• Discriminatory behavior: Complaints related to discrimination, harassment, or hostile work environments.
• Policy violations: Allegations that the president has violated institutional policies or procedures.

Complaint Submission Process

• Formal Complaint: Individuals must submit a written complaint that clearly outlines the issue, the parties involved, and any supporting documentation. The written complaint must be emailed to trustees@dacc.edu. The email will be forwarded to the Chair and Vice-Chair of the DACC Board of Trustees.
• Timeline: Complaints must be submitted within 30 days for the date of incident.
• Confidentiality: The complaint process will prioritize confidentiality, with information shared only on a need-to-know basis to protect privacy of all individuals involved.

Initial Review

• Acknowledgment: A formal acknowledgment of receipt of the complaint will be sent to the complainant from the Chair, Vice-Chair or Secretary of the Board of Trustees.
• Review Committee: A designated committee or individual (Board Chair or designee) will review the complaint to determine if it falls under the scope of the policy and whether an investigation is warranted.
• Dismissal: If the complaint does not meet the criteria or is deemed frivolous, the complaint may be dismissed, with an explanation provided to the complainant.

Investigation Process

• Investigation Team: If an investigation is deemed necessary, an impartial investigation team will be formed to conduct the investigation. The team will be assigned by the Chair and or Vice-Chair of the Board of Trustees. This team might consist of DACC administration, board members, legal counsel, or external investigators.
• Interviews and Evidence: The investigation team will interview witnesses, collect evidence, and provide the president an opportunity to respond to the allegations.
• Timeline: A specific timeline for completing the investigation should be established to ensure timely resolution. The investigation should be complete in less than 30 days.

Decision and Action

• Findings: The investigation team will provide a report with findings to the board or an appropriate governing body.
• Recommendations: Based on the findings, the board may recommend disciplinary actions (written warning, suspension, termination) or other actions (mediation, training, etc.)
• Right to Appeal: The college president has the right to appeal the findings or decisions of the board, within 30 days of the date the president receives the findings.

Confidentiality and Non-Retaliation

• Confidentiality: All parties involved in the complaint and investigation process must maintain confidentiality to the extent possible.
• Non-Retaliation: Individuals filing complaints or participating in investigations must be protected from retaliation or adverse actions, as indicated in Board Policy #4003.1, Non-Discrimination Policy and #4061, Fraud Awareness and Whistleblower Policy.

Board Review and Oversight

• The Board of Trustees is responsible for reviewing the complaint, overseeing the investigation process, and taking appropriate action.
• The board shall provide a final decision after reviewing all findings, including any appeals from the president.

Record Keeping

• All complaints, investigations, and resolutions must be documented and stored in the President's personnel file located in the Human Resources Department.