If you believe that you have been discriminated against, or harassed, you may follow the complaint procedure without fear of retaliation. All parties are assured a prompt investigation. To receive information about informal and formal options and complaint procedures available, you are encouraged to consult with Conflict Management Services if your complaint is related to a student, or Human Resources if your complaint is related to a faculty/staff member or a guest.

Informal options include receiving coaching on how to most effectively speak directly to the person(s) with whom you have a concern; talking to the appropriate administrator; or participating in mediation, which is facilitated by a neutral third party and is designed to achieve a mutually acceptable resolution between the parties involved. It is used only if the appropriate parties agree to participate. Mediation is private and expedient. If informal attempts to resolve matters of harassment/discrimination fail or are not advisable, a formal complaint may become necessary.

Madison College’s Harassment/Discrimination Procedure seeks to ensure a thorough, reliable, and impartial investigation and resolution.

The standard of evidence used in adjudication of cases of harassment/discrimination is the preponderance of evidence standard-it is more likely than not, that a violation of the Harassment/Discrimination Policy has occurred. When a violation is determined, Madison College will take prompt corrective action and impose appropriate sanctions. Madison College will provide resources to any person who has been a victim of discrimination or harassment, and will apply appropriate disciplinary measures to those who violate the Harassment/Discrimination Policy. The College complies with federal, state and local laws, including the reporting of certain crimes to law enforcement authorities.

*If you have difficulty opening the Harassment/Discrimination Procedure or Complaint Form, try saving it to your computer first and then open it with Adobe Reader.

Madison College Harassment/Discrimination Procedure* (PDF, 1715KB)

1. File a complaint for action by Madison College by using the Harassment/Discrimination Complaint Form
2. Initial Review and Preliminary Assessment
3. Notice of Harassment/Discrimination Complaint
4. Investigation
5. Review of Investigation Findings and Decision

Under both Wisconsin and federal laws, Madison College has a responsibility to address harassment/discrimination that comes to the attention of its administrative or supervisory personnel, whether or not the affected individual files a formal complaint.

Any faculty or staff member who becomes aware of any possible harassment/discrimination of any member of the Madison College community will promptly convey that information to his/her supervisor, or appropriate parties as defined in this document. Any party who receives information about an employee discriminating against or harassing a student, or faculty/staff member, will promptly convey that information as defined in this document. Any supervisor who receives information about a student discriminating against or harassing another student or faculty/staff member will promptly convey that information to the Dean of Students Office via completion of the Harassment/Discrimination Complaint Form.

If no complaint is filed, but discriminating or harassing behavior is discovered, the Affirmative Action/EEO Officer or the Dean of Students Office may investigate and takes appropriate steps to ensure that the harassment/discrimination ceases.

The filing of a formal complaint with Madison College does not restrict the right of a person to complain to state or federal equal rights agencies or to take other legal action. There are time limits applicable to the filing of such complaints with external agencies. Waiting too long may jeopardize the right to initiate an action. Contact the appropriate external agency for more information.