Conflicts of Interest

If there is a real or perceived conflict of interest involving the actions of the designated University official or University office typically responsible for handling matters of concern, the Complainant or the Responding Student may challenge the participation of the official or University office for good and substantial reasons. The challenged member’s continuation is at the discretion of the Assistant Dean of Students.

Alternate representatives may include the Office of Student Engagement, the Dean of Student’s Office, the University Ombudsman, or the Office of Human Resources. The alternate University representative or office may then designate an impartial and appropriate University official to resolve the matter following applicable University policy.

A conflict of interest exists when an individual’s knowledge of the matter or personal or professional relationships with the Complainant, respondent, or witnesses would preclude the individual from being able to investigate or adjudicate the case fairly and impartially.