Student Grievance Procedures

Wilmington University is committed to making all of its educational opportunities accessible to students with disabilities in compliance with federal, state, and local laws, including the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990. Reasonable accommodations are provided on an individual, case-by-case basis. Six criteria are used to determine whether a requested accommodation is reasonable. The accommodation requested:

  • is based on documented individual need for accommodation;
  • allows for the most integrated experience possible;
  • does not fundamentally alter the essential requirements or essential nature of a course or program;
  • does not pose a threat to personal or public safety;
  • does not impose undue financial or administrative burden;
  • is not of a personal nature (e.g., paying for an attendant).

In most instances, the reasonable accommodation provided is acceptable to both the student and faculty member. However, if that is not the case, a grievance procedure will be followed: 

  • The regular Office of Student Accessibility Services documentation/accommodation process will be followed. If acceptable, the reasonable accommodation is provided. If not, the student or faculty member may request (and consent to, as appropriate) the next recourse:
  • If a student initiates this process, the Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs renders an informal second opinion.
  • A written appeal of the provided accommodations should be submitted to the Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs.
  • An ad-hoc committee is then convened by the Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs. This ad hoc committee is composed of the following:
    • Chairperson - Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs or his/her designee
    • Other Voting members:
      • One Academic Advisor
      • One full-time faculty member
      • Psychologist (outside consultant)
  • A decision will be made and communicated to the student within 10 business days. 

If a faculty member initiates this process, the Office of the Vice President of Academic Affairs is also consulted. Usually, a resolution can be found through this informal review of the reasonable accommodation. If acceptable, the reasonable accommodation is provided. If not, the student or faculty member may request (and consent to as appropriate) the next recourse.

  • A written appeal of the decision may be made to a panel consisting of three designated members of the Cabinet, or other University officials as deemed necessary.