Policy: University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Division of Academic Affairs Subject: Non-Discrimination Statement
Number: 2.1.3
Date Approved (Council of Deans, Provost): January 15, 2014 Date Effective: January 15, 2014
Last Review/Revision: April 27, 2021
Next Review/Revision: April 27, 2023
Policy Statement
It is the policy of the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences and all of its affiliated colleges and organizations not to engage in discrimination or harassment against any person because of race, color, religion or creed, sex, gender, gender identity, pregnancy, national or ethnic origin, non-disqualifying disability, age, ancestry, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran status, political beliefs or affiliations, and to comply with all federal and state non-discrimination, equal opportunity and affirmative action laws, orders and regulations, including remaining compliant and consistent with the Civil Rights Act; the Americans with Disabilities Act; the Rehabilitation Act of 1973; and Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972.
A student having a complaint concerning terms and conditions of their student status or experience with UAMS is encouraged to present this matter to and discuss it with, the person in charge of that part of the university where the issue arises (e.g. Course Director, Department Chair, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, Dorm Director, etc.). The person in charge shall attempt to resolve the complaint and may take interim steps if deemed necessary. A complaint may, but need not, become a grievance. Such presentation and discussion shall be entirely informal. However, if the matter involves sexual misconduct or sexual assault, it will be handled pursuant to UAMS Title IX Policy 3.1.48.
If informal dialog does not resolve the issue, and the student believes that he or she has encountered a policy, procedure, or practice that constitutes discrimination, he or she should contact the Administrator at his/her respective college, who is specifically designated to assist students in the matter of filing a grievance through the UAMS Student Grievance Procedures process.
Academic, disciplinary, administrative action and grievance procedures are presented in the student handbook of each college. Copies are available both online and through the respective Associate Dean’s offices responsible for student/academic affairs.
Actions on the part of any employee or official of the University contrary to this policy will be addressed promptly and appropriately, according to 2.2.1 Grievance Procedure for Alleged Discrimination.