Raising a Workplace Concern at ACC for Employees

ACC is committed to maintaining a respectful, safe, and supportive workplace for all employees. If something doesn’t feel right — whether it’s behavior, communication, fairness, workload, or a general workplace experience — you have a voice and a clear process for bringing concerns forward.

Your HR team is here to listen, help you understand your options, and resolve matters professionally and fairly.


Your Options for Raising a Concern

Employees can choose from several paths depending on the situation. Use the chart below to compare confidentiality, action, timelines, and considerations for each route.


When to Contact HR

Use the HR Concern & Complaint Form if you experience or observe:

  • Inappropriate workplace behavior or conduct
  • Unfair treatment or retaliation
  • Conflicts with a colleague or supervisor
  • Concerns about how a policy is applied
  • Safety or working-condition concerns
  • Any workplace behavior that feels disrespectful or inappropriate

If the concern involves discrimination, harassment, or retaliation based on a protected class (such as race, sex, age, disability, etc.), HR will coordinate immediately with the Equal Opportunity Compliance (EOC) Office.

For urgent safety concerns or threats, contact ACC Police at (512) 223-7999 before submitting the form.


What Happens After You Submit a Concern

We know that submitting a concern can feel stressful. Here’s what you can expect:

1. HR Receives and Reviews Your Report
Your report goes directly to HR — not your supervisor.
Within two business days, HR will confirm receipt, gather additional information as needed, and outline preliminary next steps.

2. HR Determines the Appropriate Path
Depending on the issue, HR may:

  • Manage the case directly
  • Partner with or refer it to another office (EOC, Title IX, Campus Police)
  • Coordinate with leadership if climate or unit-level concerns arise

If you submit anonymously, HR will take whatever action is possible with the information provided.

3. Follow-Up and Communication
HR will keep you informed of key steps and expectations, unless you choose to remain anonymous.

4. Case Review & Closure
A case is closed only after the Vice Chancellor of HR (or designee) verifies that the issue was addressed to the extent possible.


Your Privacy and Protections

Confidentiality
HR keeps your information private and shares it only on a need-to-know basis to address the concern.

Anti-Retaliation
Retaliation is strictly prohibited.
If you believe retaliation has occurred, contact HR immediately.

Respectful Process
Everyone involved is treated with dignity regardless of their position or the outcome.

Fairness & Consistency
Actions are based on facts, established procedures, and policy.


Who You May Hear From

Depending on your situation, you may interact with:

  • HR Business Partner (HRBP) — Your primary contact
  • HR Executive Assistant — Intake and documentation
  • Vice Chancellor of HR — Oversight of complex matters
  • EOC or Title IX — Protected-class and harassment concerns
  • ACC Police — Safety or criminal concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I submit anonymously?
Yes. You may omit your name; however, anonymity may limit HR’s ability to investigate.

Will my supervisor be notified?
Only if necessary to address or resolve the concern.

How long does the process take?
Most concerns receive initial contact within two business days. Timelines vary based on complexity.

What if I just want advice?
You can still use the form. HR can provide guidance without initiating a formal process — unless the concern involves legal or safety obligations that must be addressed.


Ready to Share a Concern?

If you’re unsure which option is right, it’s okay to start here. HR will help guide you.

➡️ Submit a Workplace Concern

➡️ Not sure where to start? Try the Decision-Tree Tool

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