Equal Opportunities Additional Resources

Mediation Services – Student Affairs

Student Affairs

The University believes the mediation of disputes will encourage reporting and resolution of complaints. Mediation is appropriate when all parties involved-the complainant(s) and respondent(s)-voluntarily agree to engage in the mediation process. Mediation will involve resolution of the incident, and the resolution may include mutually agreeable sanctions if appropriate. Mediation agreements are final, and there will be no subsequent proceedings. If mediation does not resolve the situation or if the mediation agreements are not adhered to, the case will be adjudicated utilizing established disciplinary proceedings.

Office of Student Conduct

It is the intent of the student conduct program that the University, in handling its disciplinary problems, shall continue the use of discussion, counseling, mediation, and other existing procedures, as long as such measures prove effective. The other provisions of the program shall be set in motion in such instances when the informal procedures prove to be, or manifestly appear to be, ineffective, or inappropriate.

Counseling and Psychological Services

The Counseling and Psychological Services’ (CAPS’s) mission of service, training, and advocacy focuses on the mental health needs of Gallaudet students and the deaf community.

Office of the Ombuds

The mediator is neutral, and does not make opinions about who is right or wrong. The mediator does not provide resolution options, legal advice, or serve as the parties’ counselor. The mediator is present to facilitate respectful and constructive dialogue so the parties may address and resolve their concerns.

Office of Risk Management and Insurance

Gallaudet University and the Clerc Center have a new whistleblower hotline: we contracted with EthicsPoint to support the Board of Trustee’s mandate to report possible misconduct, also known as a “whistleblower policy.” The Board’s overarching goal is for people to speak up for a better Gallaudet — to come forward with rule or policy violations or safety concerns so we can correct them. Please read the Section 1.15 Policy on Reporting Suspected Misconduct (Whistleblower Policy) in the Gallaudet University Administration and Operations Manual.

Persons who believe they have been the victim of discrimination and/or harassment may be able to file a complaint with the District of Columbia Office of Human Rights, The U.S. Equal Employment Commission, or the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights. Information regarding filing charges with any of these agencies may be obtained from the Office of Equal Opportunities.