In addition to the specific policies outlined in the Student Handbook regarding harassment and appeals for reevaluation of grades, The Taft University System, which operates William Howard Taft University and Taft Law School (hereinafter called the “University”), provides the following process to file a formal grievance in the unlikely event that a dispute cannot be easily or immediately resolved.
Fundamental to the process is the principle that all parties make good-faith efforts to resolve all issues prior to initiating a formal grievance. The following actions are recommended to resolve any issue, complaint or grievance.
1. Informal Resolution: The complainant is encouraged to resolve the issue informally with the faculty or staff member involved.
2. Formal Grievance Filing: If a prompt resolution cannot be achieved through informal discussion the complainant should document in writing and submit it to the Director of Student Services. Current students should use the Request and Appeal Form. A copy of this form, which may be reproduced, is included as Exhibit “B” of the Student Handbook.
A formal grievance must clearly and concisely set forth what is sought, the reasons therefore, and any supporting information or documentation.
The Director of Student Services will conduct an initial review of the grievance and convene the faculty, Associate Dean, and administration as necessary to arrive at a resolution. Additional information may be requested from the complainant. If the requested information is not received within 15 days, the complaint may be considered abandoned and may not be continued. If no resolution can be reached in a reasonable amount of time (generally 1 -2 weeks), the grievance and supporting documentation will be forwarded to the Dean who will render a decision in writing within 1 week. The Dean’s decision shall be final.
In all cases, the University will take follow-up action as necessary based on the review and the decisions rendered.
