Bias or Conflict of Interest

If there is a real or perceived  bias or conflict of interest involving the actions of the designated official or office typically responsible for handling matters of concern, the claimant or responding party may challenge the participation of the official or office for good and substantial reasons. The challenged member’s continuation is at the discretion of the Dean of Students. If the bias or conflict of interest is alleged against the Dean of Students, the matter will be decided by the Chair of the Faculty.

A conflict of interest exists when an individual’s knowledge of the matter or personal or professional relationships with the claimant, responding party, or witnesses would preclude the individual from being able to investigate or adjudicate the case fairly and impartially.

Bias occurs when a person shows favoritism or partiality towards some people and not others.