The graduate student shall attempt, insofar as possible, to resolve the problem with the other party (e.g., another student, faculty, or staff member) involved as it affects their responsibilities and academic environment as a student. In the attempt to resolve the matter, the graduate student may consult, in the following suggested order, with: 1) their faculty advisor/mentor, 2) the Graduate Chair (or Department Chair, if the Graduate Chair is involved or off duty); 3) the Dean or Associate Dean of the unit that houses the graduate studentʻs program; and/or 4) the Dean or Associate Dean of Graduate Division. Any combination of the above individuals or others with whom the graduate student would like to consult, may be approached to advise and/or assist in resolving the matter. In some cases, the Dean or Associate Dean of the other party may be different from the student’s graduate program and college/school.
The graduate student may include a designated individual (e.g., general advocate, Graduate Student Organization Executive Committee member, or other individual) to provide support and guidance through the formal complaint procedure. If such an individual is present, they may ask for a break during the meeting to consult with the graduate student; however, they may not respond for the graduate student or disrupt the meeting.
If it is found through the informal resolution process that possible violations of University policy have occurred, a formal investigation may be triggered outside of the informal resolution process.
Students who are in immediate danger or who feel physically threatened due to any situation of conflict should contact the Public Safety. In the event of a dispute with a faculty, students must make a good-faith effort at informal conflict resolution using the campus resources listed below, before filing a formal complaint.
Graduate Division
During the informal stage of conflict resolution, the Graduate Dean and the Associate Graduate Dean may provide counseling and guidance, and assist with informal resolution of the conflict. However, once a formal complaint is filed, the Graduate Division must remain impartial to all parties involved in the conflict.
Graduate Student Organization (GSO)
The GSO Executive Council supports graduate students during both the stages of informal conflict resolution and formal complaint.
Office of the Vice Provost for Student Success
The Office of Student Academic Success resolves issues relating to student conduct and grades. The UH Mānoa Academic Grievance Procedures govern grievances involving grades.
Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Office
UH is an EEO institution committed to providing a community free of discrimination, intimidation, harassment or violence. It is also committed to promoting diversity and accommodating persons with a disability. For issues related to discrimination or civil rights violations, contact the Office of Civil Rights. For issues related to sexual harassment, sex-related violence, or other related types of concerns, contact the Office of Title IX.