3.5.2 - Alternate Resolution Process

In some instances, the Dean of Students or designee may determine that an Alternate Resolution Process, such as mediation, facilitated dialogue, conflict coaching, restorative justice or other resolution methods may be appropriate. If so, the Dean of Students or designee may, at their sole discretion, offer one or more of these options to the Responding Party and any other party involved, such as a Reporting Party. Alternate resolution processes are not appropriate and will not be offered when the reported misconduct involves reports Title IX Sexual Harassment or Interpersonal Violence. The offered approach must be agreed to by all parties. If one or more parties is not interested in attempting to resolve the matter by the alternate process offered by the Dean of Students or designee, the matter will proceed to a hearing. If the parties do agree to the offered Alternate Resolution Process, the Dean of Students or designee will make arrangements for it to begin. In all matters, the Reporting Party and Responding Party shall have the right at any time before a resolution is reached to stop the Alternate Resolution Process and have the matter proceed to a Student Conduct Hearing.

Any matter resolved through the Alternate Resolution Process is not subject to appeal. Failure by the Responding Party to participate fully and actively in the Alternate Resolution Process, after agreeing to do so, may result in the matter being referred back to a Student Conduct Hearing.

Alternate Resolution Process may be offered and may begin before or after a charge letter is issued to the Responding Party. If before, a charge letter may or may not be issued before resolution.