As a reflection of the Franciscan value of respecting the unique dignity of each person, the University of Saint Francis will develop and cultivate learning and a work environment that embraces diversity. We will value and respect all members of our campus community and encourage them to contribute their unique talents, skills and abilities to our university, the community and the world. In that vein, this protocol provides a mechanism to respond to instances of bias.
The University of Saint Francis reaffirms its policy of administering all educational programs, related supporting services and benefits in a manner that does not discriminate against a student or prospective student with regard to age, race, religion, national origin, sex, disability, genetics, and veteran status. The University of Saint Francis (USF) is a Catholic, Franciscan institution and reserves the right to make employment and education decisions based upon religion.
A bias incident is an act of prejudice against an individual or groups on the basis of (but not limited to) race/color, religion, ethnicity, national origin, gender, gender identity/expression, age, disability, sexual orientation, and/or veteran or military status. listing what constitutes bias limits this document to these instances. Examples may include, but not limited to vandalism to personal or university property, intimidating comments or messages, defacement of posters or signs, or similar acts, if there is evidence that the target or victim was chosen because of a characteristic such as those listed above.
The University of Saint Francis’ official Non-discrimination statement is as follows:
In its employment practices, selection of students, and administration of all programs, the University of Saint Francis maintains a policy of non-discrimination regarding age, race, religion, national origin, gender, sex, disability, genetics, and veteran status. The University of Saint Francis (USF) is a Catholic, Franciscan institution and reserves the right to make employment and education decisions based upon religion.
Unwelcome conduct determined by a reasonable person to be so severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive that it effectively denies a person equal access to the recipient’s education program or activity[1].
[1] Source: United States Department of Education
Students with any questions about instances of perceived bias or discrimination are encouraged to contact the Director of Diversity and Inclusion [email protected] who can assist you in filing a bias report. You can also submit the report on your own. Go to MCC – Forms Central – Student Forms – Campus Life – Campus Safety – Bias Report.
Director of Diversity & Inclusion reaches out to student who reports to offer care, support, and resources.
In the event that a code of conduct violation is found:
Dean of Students will follow procedures as outlined in the student handbook. The Respondent will be notified of a conduct hearing.
In the event that a code of conduct violation is not found:
the DDI meets with respondent to discuss the incident.
Director of Diversity & Inclusion reaches out to student who reports to offer care, support and resources.
Consultation with the Dean of Students.
Potential bias incidents occurring in academic settings (classrooms, academic-sponsored lectures, etc.) are to follow the protocol for faculty.
If at the time, the Bias Incident Report cannot identify and individual(s) responsible for the incident:
Diversity and Inclusion Committee convenes.
The Committee may:
Direct the report to the appropriate office.
Assess avenues for minimizing/eliminating the possibility of future incidents;
Recommend further action to be taken by the Dean of Students.
Support on-going community outreach.
Director of Diversity & Inclusion reaches out to student who reports to offer care, support, and resources.
Reports directed within two business days to the appropriate Academic Division Director, with the Vice President for Academic Affairs copied.
Division Director sends report to the faculty member’s supervisor.
If no resolution is reached:
Student can appeal to the Dean of the College.
If there is still no resolution:
Student can appeal to the Vice President for Academic Affairs.
Director of Diversity & Inclusion reaches out to student who reports to offer care, support, and resources.
Reports will be directed within two business days to the Vice President to be addressed per University policies.
Vice President may send the report to the staff member’s supervisor.
If no resolution is reached:
student can appeal to the appropriate Vice President.