A grievance is a serious complaint that demonstrates that the student has been or is being adversely affected by 1) inappropriate interpretation of Robert Cavelier University policies or 2) inappropriate response, lack of response, or decision by any person with administrative control and responsibility. A grievance is directed toward Robert Cavelier University, not a specific person, and should be in writing per the grievance procedure below.
If a student has a complaint, grievance, or dispute with Robert Cavelier University regarding procedures, decisions, or judgments, that cannot be resolved through informal channels, the student has a right to seek a satisfactory resolution through the formal avenues of appeal and redress as follows:
- Step 1 – Notification: The student must notify the relevant faculty member, staff, or administrator in writing, by certified or registered mail postmarked no later than fifteen (15) days after the occurrence, stating the basis for the grievance, the details of the matter, including relevant dates and the remedy requested. Copies of any documents supporting the student’s allegations are to be included. The individual so notified shall respond with a decision in writing within fifteen (15) days of receipt of the grievance.
- Step 2 – Appeal: : If the remedy requested is denied, or if the notified Robert Cavelier University faculty member, staff member, or administrator does not respond within fifteen (15) days after the notification of Step 1 has been mailed, the student may appeal in writing, sent by certified or registered mail, directly to the Chief Academic Officer within an additional fifteen (15) day period. The recipient of the appeal will review the grievance and render a decision within fifteen (15) days of receipt of the student’s appeal. However, failure to initiate a Step 2 appeal within the fifteen (15) day time frame indicates that the student accepts the Step 1 decision as final and that the matter is closed.
- Step 3: Final Decision. If the remedy requested is denied or the University does not respond within fifteen (15) days after the Step 2 notice has been mailed, the student may appeal in writing, sent by certified or registered mail, directly to the CEO within an additional fifteen (15) day period. The President will meet with the individuals involved to investigate the matter and will render a decision within fifteen (15) days of receipt of the student’s appeal.
The CEO’s decision shall be final. However, failure to initiate a Step 3 appeal within 15 days indicates that the student accepts the Step 2 decision as final and that the matter is closed.
If a student has exhausted the complaint and grievance procedure at Robert Cavelier University and still feels that the issue has not been satisfactorily remedied, the student may file a complaint about this institution with the Louisiana Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Section following the Louisiana Board of Regents procedure found here.
The Consumer Protection Section of the Louisiana Attorney General:
PHONE: 225-326-6465 or 800-351-4889
FAX: 225-326-6499
EMAIL: ConsumerInfo@ag.louisiana.gov