This page outlines multiple avenues for reporting concerns and grievances within ESS and the University of Washington at large. In our efforts to support the academic and professional success of all members of the ESS community, we encourage members of our community to identify incidences or events that affect their sense of safety.
We recommend, first and foremost, that any incidents or events concerning safety, large or small, be taken directly to SafeCampus – the University of Washington’s violence-prevention and response program. In urgent or dangerous situations, call 911. We strive to create a community where all members feel comfortable coming forward directly with suggestions, concerns, or grievances.
Confidentiality, Anonymity, and Investigative Authority
Confidentiality
The University limits information about complaints to those with a business need-to-know. However, public records law and some legal processes may require the University to disclose certain University records. If you are concerned about confidentiality, you should discuss your concern early in your exploration of resolution options so that you receive guidance on options for how it can be safeguarded. For a list of legally protected confidential resources, scroll to the bottom of this page.
Anonymity
We want all members of our community to feel comfortable coming forward directly with suggestions or concerns. However, we realize that in some instances individuals may wish to remain anonymous. Please remember, when anonymous comments are received, we have no way of knowing who submitted them and are unable to follow up directly with the individual to let them know how we addressed their comments.
Investigative Authority
ESS is not authorized to investigate or adjudicate claims against faculty, staff or academic student employees, all of whom have rights to appeal personnel actions as outlined in law, the Faculty Code, and various union contracts. Reports to ESS can, however, result in corrective actions in our processes, procedures, and professional development that can reduce the potential for future harm. Allegations of serious misconduct must be reported to the appropriate authorities. Please refer to the guidelines below.
For Concerns About Safety
For urgent concerns for physical safety, call 911. For any other personal safety concerns, call SafeCampus, (206) 685-7233. They will listen to your concerns and provide guidance and safety plans tailored to your situation. Reports can be made anonymously and reported back to any individual or office you wish.
Your supervisor or advisor can take the quickest action to help resolve conflicts or other issues. If your supervisor is part of a conflict, consider other departmental or college leadership:
For student-initiated complaints, contact Student Services personnel:
Noell Bernard-Kingsley, Director ()
M Pritchard, Counseling Services Coordinator ()
Alison Duvall, Associate Chair for Undergraduate Affairs ()
Fang-Zhen Teng, Associate Chair for Graduate Affairs ()
For staff- or faculty-initiated complaints, contact ESS Administration:
Scott Dakins, Administrator ()
David Schmidt, Chair ()
Alicia Campese, HR Manager ()
Students should also feel free to speak directly with the Chair or Department Administrator.
ESS also has an anonymous reporting tool (coming soon). Users should be aware that the department has limited investigative authority, and cannot respond to directly to anonymous reports, though we can try to address issues that are raised. You are encouraged to carefully read the Confidentiality, Anonymity, and Investigative Authority section below to understand the process.
What to Expect
When you formally report an issue or concern within ESS, you can expect to receive confirmation that your report is under review and will include follow-up with further actions as warranted. Depending on the complaint and desired resolution, you may be referred to an office with investigative authority. If desired, an ESS staff member can assist you in the process. (NOTE: The University is required to comply with several laws governing the release of records and we follow the guidelines established in APS 57.9: Departmental Guidelines for the Release of University Records. In general, it is the University’s practice to release personnel records only to administrators when required for the discharge of their University responsibilities. All other requests are referred to the Office of Public Records and Open Public Meetings for determination of the records’ status under the Public Disclosure Act.)
UW Reporting and Other Resources
SafeCampus – The central reporting office to discuss safety and well-being concerns for yourself or others. (Calls may be made anonymously.)
Office of the Ombud – Offers you a collaborative and private place to discuss work challenges. The Ombud will not conduct investigations but can help you assess complaint resolution options and navigate University resources.
Bias Reporting Tool – If you encounter or suspect incidents of bias, you are encouraged to use this tool. The UW’s Bias Incident Advisory Committee compiles and analyzes data from submitted reports to inform future educational and prevention efforts. (Reports may be made anonymously.)
UW Office Authorized to Investigate and Adjudicate
UW Academic Human Resources (AHR) – For conflicts that may be caused by personality differences, miscommunication, or behaviors that violate University policy such as discrimination or harassment. AHR is our key partner for complaints involving faculty, librarians, and academic staff in the College of the Environment. AHR does not investigate incidents, but it does address conflicts and implement disciplinary sanctions/coaching/etc., after an investigation is completed.
UW Human Resources (UWHR) – For conflicts that may be caused by personality differences, miscommunication, or behaviors that violate University policy such as discrimination or harassment. The College’s specific HR Consultant is our key partner for complaints involving staff or academic student employees in the College of the Environment. Any complaint of sexual harassment should be directed to UCIRO rather than UWHR.
Title IX Investigation Office – Investigates allegations that a University of Washington student engaged in sexual misconduct, including sexual harassment and other sexual- and gender-based violence.
Legally-protected Confidential Resources
For Students
Counseling Center – Provides confidential personal counseling to UW students for issues such as stress, anxiety, depression and relationship problems.
LiveWell Confidential Advocate – A confidential and safe starting point for students affected by sexual assault, relationship violence, domestic violence and stalking.
For Students and Employees
UWPD Victim Advocate – A confidential and safe starting point for students affected by crime, including sexual assault, relationship violence, domestic violence, and stalking. It is not necessary to make a police report to meet with the UWPD Victim Advocate.
NOTE: Sharing information with the Counseling Center or a confidential advocate is not the same as making a report to the University for the purpose of starting an investigation. Advocates can help you understand your rights and support you in creating a plan for your situation.
Anonymous Reporting Form
Messages sent through this form will be forwarded to the HR Manager, who will then decide the appropriate routing based on the circumstance.
Anonymous Reporting Form Coming Soon
To provide feedback on this webpage or the reporting tool, please email .