Faculty Grievance

Faculty Grievances are outlined in the Faculty Handbook, section 6.4. The information on this page outlines some of the main points of the policy, but faculty are encouraged to read the policy in its entirety.

6.4.1 Faculty Grievance Policy

The JSU faculty grievance policy is designed to ensure that faculty (including administrative faculty) have a safe and healthy work environment and that their rights are protected. When a faculty member has a concern about their workplace, they should begin with informal discussions with their supervisor (e.g., department head or dean) to resolve the situation (which may involve the supervisor or faculty member consulting Human Resources for guidance). In the rare instance when a concern or situation cannot be resolved informally with their supervisor or their supervisor’s supervisor (e.g., department head and dean) in a timely manner, the faculty member may choose to begin the formal grievance procedure.

Grievance Definition 

A grievance is a written allegation or complaint in which a faculty member (“Grievant”) believes that existing University or Faculty Handbook policies and/or procedures have been violated, misinterpreted and/or improperly applied, including the expectation of civility in behavior and discourse within the University setting (Faculty Handbook, Section 2.2.8), which is viewed by the Grievant as unfair, inequitable, or a hindrance to their effective work performance, except as limited below.  

 

Exclusions 

Section 6.4 does not apply to the following issues or allegations, in which case faculty should follow University or Faculty Handbook policy, if applicable: 

  • Non-reappointment of non-tenured faculty (see the Faculty Handbook, Section 6.1.3) 
  • Denial of promotion and/or tenure (see the Faculty Handbook, Section 5.2.10) 
  • Imposition of discipline, being placed on administrative leave, or dismissal (see the Faculty Handbook, Section 6.2) 
  • Layoffs due to financial exigency or discontinuance of a program or department for educational reasons (see the Faculty Handbook, Section 6.3) 
  • Policy I:02:24 Employee Mandatory Self-Reporting of Criminal Offenses 
  • Your selection of employee benefits  
  • Your work with third parties 
  • Grievances involving any Cabinet-level administrator (these go the JSU President for consideration, who shall resolve the matter as they deem appropriate) 

The Grievance Procedure is outlined in the Faculty Handbook, Section 6.4.2. This procedure is designed to ensure there is a fair and transparent process for faculty to follow so their grievance may be heard and addressed. Faculty using this procedure will be entitled to do so without fear of retaliation, interference, coercion, or discrimination. For the purposes of this policy, the phrase “in writing” shall include electronic communication, such as email or dynamic forms.

Faculty wishing to file a grievance shall fill out the following form and upload supporting documentation – Faculty Grievance Form

Additional Reference Materials