The Design Studies Institute (DSI) does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. These activities include, but are not limited to, employee hiring and employment practices, admissions of students, selection of volunteers and vendors, and provision of services.
Design Studies Institute is committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of Design Studies Institute’s students, faculty, staff, and affiliates.
The Design Studies Institute recognizes that diversity, inclusion, and belonging are essential to creating a positive and thriving academic community. The Institute welcomes diversity in all forms and seeks to acknowledge and appreciate the talents of our community by encouraging the free expression of ideas, beliefs, and viewpoints for all. Fostering an inclusive community promotes intellectual curiosity, creativity, and innovation in the design discipline. The Design Studies Institute strives to create equal opportunities for all in order to support a fair and safe academic environment.
If you believe you have experienced discrimination or been witness to discrimination, report the incident via email at report@dsi.edu.ai.
In instances of reported discrimination, DSI will conduct a prompt, thorough and impartial investigation of a complaint as necessary and appropriate. DSI will make every effort to complete its investigation within forty-five (45) days of a report of retaliation and will keep the investigation confidential to the extent possible. The Dean will appoint a neutral investigator to oversee the investigation. The investigator may find it necessary to extend the time period for completing an investigation in some circumstances. The investigator will provide the complainant and the alleged wrongdoer with notice of any extension and where necessary and appropriate, give them a new timetable for completion of the investigation.
Where a complaint alleges a potential violation of the Non-Discrimination Policy, the investigation will include an interview with both parties, as well as the person who made the initial report, if different than one of the parties, and/or any other person who may have information regarding the incident, each of whom is expected to cooperate with any investigation. The investigator may also review relevant documents. Both parties will have an opportunity to be heard and present information. The investigation process is strictly internal to DSI.
The investigator will report his or her findings to both parties and relevant supervisors for faculty or staff, or academic advisors for students, as may be appropriate.
Where the investigator concludes that a violation of this Non-Discrimination Policy has occurred, DSl takes prompt and appropriate remedial action. For staff and faculty, this includes disciplinary action (but is not limited to): reprimand/verbal counseling, training, censure, removal of privileges, letters of warning or suspension, and termination. Discipline for a violation of this Policy need not be progressive, so a first violation of this Policy may warrant suspension or discharge depending on the nature and severity of the conduct. For students, disciplinary actions are outlined in the Learner Disciplinary Policy.
