Complaints & Grievances
There are many policies in the UW Oshkosh Employee Handbooks and Policy Directory that communicate the University’s values and expectations of proper conduct. Several of these policies also address harassment and discrimination in all forms. These policies apply to all faculty, staff, and students with respect to activities occurring on any University property and University-related activities occurring off-campus.
UW Oshkosh has an established system of complaint and grievance procedures to address complaints and alleged misconduct.
Process & Procedures
Persons who believe they have experienced or witnessed misconduct are encouraged to report the incidents. There is a helpful site at https://uwosh.edu/report/ to assist with determining where to report. If you are unsure of where to report something, you can always contact Human Resources & Workforce Diversity staff for assistance.
To file a complaint or grievance based on any protected status such as race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age or disability, please contact the UW Oshkosh Equal Opportunity, Equity & Affirmative Action Director by calling (920) 424-1166.
Those who have been subjected to an incident of sexual violence or sexual harassment, or who have received a report of or witnessed an incident of sexual violence or sexual harassment, have several options for reporting the incident.
Informal Procedures
The informal procedure typically seeks acceptable mediation or resolution of the complaint between the parties involved. During the informal discussion and investigation of such a complaint by the assigned investigator, emphasis is placed on the resolution of the matter as quickly as possible, at the lowest level possible, and with the fewest number of people. Resolution sought will be after consultation with the complainant.
Note: A complaint focuses upon the alleged misconduct of another and seeks punishment for the offender. A grievance focuses upon the alleged effects experienced by the grievant (perceived unfair treatment or violation of rights or in general unsatisfactory working conditions) and seeks relief for the grievant.
Formal Procedures
Formal complaints or expressions of concern about possible harassment or discrimination may be pursued consistent with University rules and procedures, as noted below:
Against a faculty member:
When a report is made against a faculty member, the procedures linked here apply.
UW Oshkosh Handbook FAC 9.C Faculty Complaints
Chapter UWS 4 Procedures for Dismissal https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/uws/4
Chapter UWS 6 Complaints & Grievances
https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/uws/6
Chapter UWS 7 Dismissal of Faculty in Special Cases
Against an Academic Staff member:
When a report is made against an academic staff member, the procedures linked here apply.
UW Oshkosh Handbook ACS Chapter 16 Complaints
Chapter UWS 11 Dismissal of Academic Staff for Cause
https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/uws/11
Chapter UWS 13 Complaints & Grievances
Against a University Staff member:
When a report is made against a university staff member, the procedures linked here apply.
Against a Student:
When a report is made against a university student, the procedures linked here apply.
For the most recent version on all policies please view the Policy Directory.