The student should make the complaint verbally or in writing to the VP for Student Success and Enrollment Management. If, however, the complaint involves the VP for Student Success and Enrollment Management, then the complaint should be directed to the Chief Human Resources Office and will be handled in accordance with the Faculty Handbook procedures, Section 1.3.1.
In making a complaint, the student should provide sufficient information to identify the parties involved, any witnesses, the alleged discrimination, and all facts that support the allegations of discrimination.
The VP for Student Success and Enrollment Management (hereinafter “Investigator”) shall immediately begin an investigation of the complaint. The investigation will involve meeting with all parties and witnesses. The complainant and the person(s) against whom the allegation of discrimination have been made and their respective representatives, if any, will be provided an opportunity to submit information, written statements and documentation regarding the complaint allegations. To the extent appropriate, interim measures for the protection of the complaining party may be taken while the investigation is pending.
Within 30 days of receipt of the complaint, unless the Investigator has notified the parties in writing that the facts require a longer investigation, the Investigator shall issue a written determination as to the complaint, including the investigative findings, and provide such written determination to the complainant and the respondent. The Dean of Students will implement prompt remedial action to remedy any discrimination or harassment that he concludes has occurred.
Either party may appeal the findings of an investigation by submitting a written document within seven (7) days of notification of the determination to the Vice President for Student Success and Enrollment Management, Hampton University, Hampton, VA 23668 who shall refer the appeal to the three (3) member Administrative Appeals Committee. The appeal must specify with particularity the irregularities of the Investigator’s determination. The Vice President for Student Success and Enrollment Management must inform the parties of the appeal decision within fourteen (14) days of the receipt of the appeal.
Although Hampton University will make every effort to comply with these timelines, circumstances such as school breaks may justify an extension of time. If such an extension is warranted, the parties will be advised.
Retaliation against any person who files a complaint of alleged discrimination or harassment, participates in an investigation, or opposes a discriminatory or harassing education practice or policy is prohibited under university policy and by state and federal law. An individual who believes he or she was subjected to retaliation can file a complaint about the alleged retaliation under these procedures. If it is determined that retaliation has occurred, sanctions may be imposed, including, but not limited to, suspension or termination.
EMPLOYEES INCLUDING FACULTY
Complaints by Employees including Faculty alleging discrimination and/or harassment in violation of Hampton University’s policies on non-discrimination not involving Title IX should be directed to:
Ms. Rikki R. Thomas
Chief Human Resources Officer
53 Marshall Avenue
Hampton, VA 23668
757-727-5250
Email: rikki.thomas@hamptonu.edu
For details concerning these complaints procedures, please see the following: Education Support Staff Handbook or Faculty Handbook.