An individual1 who alleges that a professional staff member's handling of a matter involving that individual has been unsatisfactory may lodge a complaint with the general secretary. (Actions of Association deliberative bodies, elected leaders, committees, conferences, or chapters are not subject to the grievance process.) The complainant will set forth in writing what actions or matters are being grieved and the remedy sought, and shall provide supporting documentation for the grievance. The general secretary will promptly refer the complaint to another member of the staff for review, explaining to the individual that this is the first step in the grievance procedure.
If the complainant is dissatisfied with the result of the second staff member's review, the general secretary will respond to the matter directly. If the complainant alleges that the general secretary's response is also unsatisfactory (or if the complaint was initially lodged against the general secretary), the general secretary will refer the complaint, with available documentation, to the Grievance Committee of the Association. The complainant will be invited to supply any additional relevant documentation.
The Grievance Committee will conduct such inquiry as it deems warranted. It will afford the staff member or members whose actions are the object of the grievance opportunity to respond. The committee will determine whether the grievance has merit. If the committee so finds, it will recommend appropriate remedies.
The Grievance Committee will submit its report to the president and/or, at its discretion, to the Council's Executive Committee. A copy will be sent to the general secretary. The president and/or the Executive Committee will determine what resulting action, if any, is appropriate. This will constitute the Association's final disposition of the grievance. The complainant, the general secretary, and the staff member or members concerned will be informed of the disposition of the grievance.
Composition of the Grievance Committee
The Grievance Committee will consist of three members of the Council appointed by the president for staggered terms of three years.2 The president will designate the chair of the committee, who will normally serve a term of one year.
Notes
1. A chapter or conference leader, or an individual acting for a group, may lodge a complaint on behalf of the chapter, conference, or group. Back to Text
2. The president will appoint alternates for members who have an apparent conflict of interest in a particular case.