The Mathematical Sciences Research Institute (MSRI) does not discriminate in access to, or employment in, its programs or activities. No one, on the basis of their disability, may be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination under any MSRI activity. The Operations Manager of MSRI is the ADA/504 Compliance Officer responsible for administering disability services for the public and staff.
The ADA/504 Compliance Officer is responsible for ensuring that the policies and procedures developed by MSRI comply with federal, state, and local requirements. The ADA/504 Compliance Officer serves as a resource to those with disabilities who believe that they are not receiving appropriate accommodations or that they are being treated in a discriminatory manner.
MSRI Disability and Accommodation Complaint Resolution Process
The Mathematical Sciences Research Institute (MSRI) Non-Discrimination Policy includes a process for the resolution of complaints related to disability accommodations, discrimination, or the failure to reasonably accommodate disability-related needs.
Affected persons may address concerns about accommodations in two ways. The first is to pursue an informal resolution; the second is to pursue a formal accommodation complaint or grievance. While all are encouraged to begin with informal resolution, one may choose to start with a formal process.
I. Informal Resolution:
In general, when and individual is dissatisfied with any accommodations, or lack of accommodations, the fastest process for resolving the issue is to directly contact the ADA/504 Compliance Officer. This can be accomplished by emailing the ADA/504 Compliance Officer (access@msri.org) or scheduling a meeting to discuss the complaint and explore possible avenues of resolution. If a satisfactory solution cannot be reached, the complainant may initiate a formal resolution process by submitting a formal accommodation complaint in writing as described below.
II. Formal Process for Accommodation:
If the complainant is dissatisfied with the informal resolution, or wishes to bypass the informal resolution process, the complainant may engage in a formal process for accommodation.
A formal request must be made in writing, must state unambiguously that it is a “formal request,” and must be sent to the attention of the ADA/504 Compliance Officer (access@msri.org).
One may file their request, complaint or grievance in a written letter or email, which must include the following information:
- The name, address, email address and telephone number of the complainant. If a representative is filing the grievance, their name, address and telephone number must also be included.
- A description of the offending behavior(s) or action(s) or violation(s).
- The date(s), time(s) and location(s) of the incident(s) when applicable.
- If the incident(s) involved MSRI members, staff or contractors, their name(s) should be included, if known.
- If there are any witnesses to the incidents, their name(s) should be included, if known.
- If the grievance is being filed on behalf of another person or a group of people, all of the grievants should be described or identified by name, if possible.
- The remedy that the complainant desires.
Investigation
After receiving a formal request, complaint or grievance, the ADA/Section 504 Compliance Officer, or their designee (ie: MSRI’s independent Ombudsperson), will investigate. The investigation may include, but may not be limited to, interviews with: (a) the complainant; (b) the person(s), if any, who allegedly caused the discrimination; and (c) any other person the investigator believes to have relevant knowledge concerning the grievance. The investigator will also consider any written evidence that has been provided.
Findings
After completing the investigation, the investigator will review the information gathered through the investigation to determine whether discrimination has occurred or the MSRI policy has been otherwise violated. The investigator will consider all of the information, all the circumstances, and the context in which any alleged incident(s) occurred.
The investigator will then prepare a written report which will include: (1) the results of the investigation; (2) a determination as to whether the allegations of discrimination were confirmed or unfounded; and (3) a proposed resolution of the matter. A copy of the report will be sent to the complainant, and a copy will be sent to the respondent (if any).
Confidentiality
MSRI will make every reasonable effort to maintain confidentiality throughout the investigation process, to the extent consistent with the law, adequate investigation principals, and appropriate corrective action. This means that MSRI will share information only on a need-to-know basis.
Time Frame for Complaint Process
Formal requests, complaints and grievances will be investigated, and a response issued, within 60 days of receipt. If a delay is anticipated, the ADA/Section 504 Compliance Officer will notify the complainant in writing of the reason(s) for the delay, and the date by which they will receive a response. When a corrective action or resolution is necessary, the complainant will be provided with a timeline under which MSRI intends to resolve the matter.
Non-Retaliation Policy
MSRI will not retaliate against individuals for filing a request, complaint or grievance, or for participating in an investigation. Additionally, MSRI will not knowingly permit retaliation by its members or employees. MSRI will take reasonable steps to protect the parties of a grievance from retaliation by others as a result of filing a grievance, therefore, it is important to let the ADA/Section 504 Compliance Officer know immediately if one feels that they are being retaliated against for filing, or participating in a grievance.