VALENCIA COMMUNITY COLLEGE

COMMITMENT TO EQUAL/ACCESS– EQUAL/OPPORTUNITY

                Valencia Community College is an equal opportunity institution and provides equal opportunity for employment and educational services to all individuals as it relates to admission to the College, admission to programs, any aid, benefit, or service to students or wages and other terms, conditions or privileges of employ, without regard to race, color, national origin, age, religion, disability, marital status, gender, sexual orientation and any other factor prohibited under applicable federal, state, and local civil rights laws, rules and regulations.  The equal opportunity principle applies to otherwise qualified disabled persons with regard to employment, the delivery of educational programs and services, and all other appropriate areas in which the College is involved.

                In line with our Strategic Plan, the College recognizes its commitment to ensure that current and future students are not discriminated against and its obligation to ensure a bias free learning environment.  Specific procedures for filing a complaint and resolving academic disputes are provided under www.valenciacc.edu/students/Disputes as well as the prevailing policy -  6Hx28:8-10 (Student Academic Dispute and Administrative Complaint Resolution).  In addition, the College has developed an Ombudsman Program and has appointed Ombudsmen on each campus.  The role of the Ombudsman is not to substitute for formal procedures, such as filing a final grade grievance, rather students are able to conduct off-the-record discussions about student concerns.  This information is also provided in the Student LifeMap Handbook and College Catalog.

                The College provides equal educational opportunities for qualified individuals with disabilities and complies with and supports the Americans with Disabilities Act.

                Dr. Stanley H. Stone is the Vice President for Human Resources and Diversity and also the College’s Equity Officer who ensures compliance with federal, state and local laws prohibiting discrimination and sexual harassment.

                Employees and students who believe they have been a victim of discrimination or sexual harassment should contact: