Student Organization Disputes and Mediation

Any dispute, controversy, or claim arising out of or relating to the interpretation or application of a student organization constitution, inclusive of organizational bylaws if applicable, shall be settled by the primary advisor of record for the student organization. In the event that the primary advisor is unavailable, is a party to the dispute, or is unable or unwilling to resolve the dispute, then the issue shall be submitted to the Office of Student Involvement for binding arbitration. Requests for arbitration must be submitted in writing and include:

  • The name of the student organization;
  • The name and contact information of the individual(s) filing the request;
  • The specific act(s) or circumstances(s) alleged to constitute the basis of the complaint;
  • The remedy requested.

Upon receipt of a full and complete request for arbitration, the Office of Student Involvement will assign the request to an Arbitrator, who will review the materials in order to determine if additional information or materials are necessary to inform a binding decision. If additional information is deemed necessary or appropriate, the Arbitrator will conduct additional fact finding to his or her satisfaction, which may include requesting additional written statements, conducting in-person interviews, or holding formal hearings. The final decision of the Arbitrator will be the final and exclusive remedy of the parties for all claims, counterclaims, issues, or accountings presented or pled to the arbitrator.

Should both parties agree, disputes can also be handled through Mutual Mediation Process and a mediator will be assigned by The Office of Student Involvement and parties will discuss outcomes to be agreed upon in an official mediation contract.

Mediation

In a mediation appointment, the mediator listens to all sides of a dispute and then works with each side to come to a solution that is mutually agreeable. The mediator has no authority to force a resolution on any party, so if agreement cannot be reached then the mediation fails.

Request a Mediation

Arbitration

In an arbitration hearing, the arbitrator listens to all sides of a dispute and then comes to a decision that all parties are required to follow.

Request an Arbitration