Problem Solving Procedure

(effective 1/1/07)

Lesley University has a strong commitment to ensure employees' concerns and issues are addressed promptly. The University encourages open and honest communication among members of the Community. In most cases conflicts and differences may be resolved simply by bringing concerns to your supervisor's attention, and/or to Human Resources. If you believe that those avenues have not provided a fair solution for the issue, this process provides access to an additional internal system for an objective means of problem solving for Staff and Administrators. The Faculty Handbook outlines a similar process for Faculty issues and concerns.

The University is committed to creating and maintaining a working environment which is free of objectionable and disrespectful conduct and preventing communication that interferes with an individual's work performance or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive working environment. If the matter relates to issues concerning discriminatory or sexual harassment, you are encouraged to contact your supervisor, and/or the Director of Human Resources (617.349.8785). Lesley University will respond promptly and sensitively to all complaints. Interviews and review of the matter will be conducted in an objective and as confidential manner as possible.

If the matter involves job-related concerns, and attempts at informal resolution have failed, employees are encouraged to use the process below:

• Step One:
  Submit the issue in writing to your supervisor within 15 days of the occurrence of the incident. The supervisor will review the matter and reply in writing within 5 business days of receipt of your documentation.

• Step Two:
  If you are not satisfied with the answer received in Step One, you may appeal in writing to your Department head within 5 business days of the reply to Step One. The Department head will meet with you concerning the matter within 5 business days from the date that the appeal is submitted, and reply in writing within 5 business days of the meeting.

• Step Three:
  If you are not satisfied with the answer received in Step Two, you may appeal in writing to the President (or designee) within 5 business days of the reply at Step Two. The President or designee will meet with you within 5 business days of the date the appeal is submitted, and reply to you within 5 business days of the meeting. The President's (or designee's) decision is final.