Community input sought for Behavioural Policies review

The University of Manitoba is seeking community feedback with regard to a review of the following current governing documents: the Respectful Work and Learning Environment Policy, the Violent or Threatening Behaviour Policy, the Inappropriate or Disruptive Student Behaviour Policy, and the Student Discipline Bylaw.

The review of the U of M’s behavioural policies is being undertaken by a broad working group with representation from units that support in administering these governing documents. The working group consists of: Susan Gottheil, vice-provost (students), Jeff Leclerc, university secretary; Jay Doering, vice-provost (graduate education) and dean, Faculty of Graduate Studies; Greg Juliano, associate vice-president (human resources); Naomi Andrew, general counsel and director, fair practices and legal affairs; Alan Scott, chief risk officer; Jackie Gruber, human rights and conflict management officer; Brandy Usick, director, student advocacy and accessibility; Maria Versace, legal counsel for the U of M; and Marcia Yoshida, student appeals officer.

The proposed revision of these governing documents is being guided by the following concerns:

• A need to ensure compliance with The Human Rights Code (Manitoba) and The Workplace Safety and Health Regulation (Manitoba);
• A desire to more clearly outline and streamline the University’s response to sexual assault on campus;
• A need for clarity with students and employees about behavioural expectations;
• A need to respond to a changing environment, including the growing use of social media; and
• A need for consistency in addressing student misconduct and concerning behaviour across the University.

A general overview of the proposed policy revisions can be found at: http://umanitoba.ca/admin/governance/media/Overview_of_Changes_-_2015_10_26.pdf

Proposed changes to these governing documents will be presented at two noon-hour community consultation meetings: one on Monday Nov. 23 at Fort Garry campus and another on Thursday Nov. 26 at Bannatyne campus.

Feedback can also be submitted online to the website http://umanitoba.ca/admin/governance/governing_documents/behavioural_policy_review_consultations.html or to the email address policy.feedback@umanitoba.ca

Community Consultations: Behavioural Policies

Fort Garry campus

543-544 University Centre
Monday Nov. 23
12 to 1:00 PM

Bannatyne campus

164 Apotex Centre
Thursday Nov. 26
12 to 1:00 PM