V. FULFILLMENT OF THE CRITERIA

D. CRITERION FIVE

The institution demonstrates integrity in its practices and relationships.

Salient Evidence of Fulfillment of Criterion

1. Evidence that demonstrates the criterion is met:

• SVSU publications and websites are up to date, accurate, understandable, and consistent with expectations of the Higher Learning Commission.

• Student disciplinary and grievance processes (e.g., grade appeals) are mature, tested, understood and respected by students. Faculty, staff and students report that policies and procedures function effectively and appropriately.

• SVSU transcripts follow commonly accepted practices and accurately reflect students’ academic experiences.

• Leaders in the regional business community regard the institution as a reliable and preferred business partner. Business officers of the university are respected participants in the regional network of business leaders.

2. Evidence that demonstrates the criterion needs institutional attention

• Faculty and staff grievances follow processes defined in labor contracts, and historically have been settled in-house. Some grievance officers believe that the role of the staff relations office in the grievance process has recently changed; it is unclear whether this will influence labor relations compared to historical practice.

3. Evidence that demonstrates the criterion requires institutional attention and Commission follow-up

None noted.

Recommendation of the Team

Pattern of evidence sufficiently demonstrated: no Commission follow-up recommended.