Complaint Procedures
If a student expresses concern that the faculty member is unable to meet their Special Accommodation needs in a given class and the faculty member and the student cannot resolve the issue, the faculty member should direct the student to complete a Written Notice of Failure of Accommodation to Meet a Need form and submit it to the Dean of Students. This form should also be submitted by the student if a student and faculty member are unable to satisfactorily meet Special Accommodation needs and would like the student’s quizzes, tests, or exams proctored by Disability Services.
A complaint that Special Accommodations for a student are not being met must be made in writing, and must provide the name and address of the person making it and a brief description of the alleged violation of ADA regulations. The complaint should be made using the Written Notice of Failure of Accommodation to Meet a Need.
A complaint should be addressed to the Cumberland University Dean of Students, Labry Hall 206, One Cumberland Square, Lebanon, Tennessee 37087. A copy of this complaint will be given to the Designated University Coordinator.
A complaint must be filed within ten (10) business days after the complainant becomes aware of the alleged violation.
An investigation will be conducted. The investigation will include, but not necessarily be limited to, interviews with the complainant and with university personnel in charge of the area in which the alleged violation occurred. All involved parties will be provided an opportunity to submit evidence relevant to the complaint. The investigation will be conducted in a manner which protects any due process right of parties concerned and also ensures that Cumberland University complies with the ADA and its implementing regulations.
When the investigation is complete the student will receive written determination concerning the validity of the complaint and a description of the resolution, if any. This statement will be provided to the complainant no later than twenty (20) business days following receipt of the complaint and a copy will be given the Designated University Coordinator.
If the individual is dissatisfied with the outcome of the investigation, an appeal may be made through the Designated University Coordinator at the conclusion of the investigation within ten (10) business days of the written determination. In the event of an appeal, the Designated University Coordinator will review the complaint, the results of the investigation, the written determination, and consult with the complainant in an attempt to resolve any remaining concerns within twenty-one (21) business days of receipt of the appeal. The final appeal rests with the President.
If the nature of the complaint is against the Cumberland University Dean of Students or the Cumberland University Disability Services Office, the complaint should be filed with the Cumberland University Executive Vice President, Memorial Hall 216, One Cumberland Square, Lebanon, Tennessee 37087.