How We Work
The MU Equity Office is an independent office, separate from the influence of other administrative or academic units. When we identify a problem, we work with the party who has the authority to resolve the issue. We seek a fair and equitable resolution for all concerned.
Mediation is also an informal process, but it is totally outside the administrative structure. Mediators will only work with the parties to the mediation; they will not take any action on problems uncovered through the mediation process.
The student, faculty, and staff grievance procedures, on the other hand, are very formal processes with strictly defined roles, action steps, and timetables. The Equity Office fills the gap between grievance and mediation by addressing problems within the administrative structure but without the constraints of a formal process.
Seeking Equity Office assistance does not negate the possibility of using another process. It may be possible, while staying within various procedural timelines, to work with the Equity Office and also at some point seek mediation or file a grievance.
It is generally in everybody’s best interest to resolve problems at the lowest level possible (i.e., informally rather than formally; and through mutual actions of the parties rather than through investigation and administrative action).