Advocacy FAQ

The Concordia Student Union (CSU) Advocacy Centre (AC) is a confidential and essential service for students at Concordia that provides students with independent student representation in Disciplinary Proceedings, Investigations and Tribunal Hearings at the University under the Academic Code of Conduct and / or the Code of Rights and Responsibilities. It also provides independent consultation and support through unfair obstacles/barriers to academic endeavors, including assistance in drafting complaints, in conflicts with professors or departments, in special requests and in readmission applications, and assistance in understanding the university’s various policies and procedures. Lastly, the CSU AC reports overarching patterns in student problems to elected student officials.

Student Advocates are Concordia undergraduate and graduate students employed by the CSU who have extensive knowledge of Concordia’s policies and procedures, the Academic Code of Conduct, and the Code of Rights and Responsibilities. Before Student Advocates start taking on cases, they go through a extensive training and shadowing. This includes studying Concordia’s policies and understanding the network of Concordia’s staff and faculty. Student Advocates work to represent students with accuracy and confidence. 

• Representation and assistance in Academic Misconduct proceedings (Academic Code of Conduct)
• Representation and assistance in Behavioral Misconduct proceedings (Code of Rights and Responsibilities, Policy on Sexual Violence, Policy on Student Involuntary Leave of Absence)
• Assistance in resolving conflicts or issues with instructors
• Assistance in drafting and filing formal complaints
• Assistance in drafting and reviewing student requests

Since our Student Advocates are also students, the CSU AC is dedicated to help you navigate your situation with understanding and compassion. We are employed by the Concordia Student Union (CSU) rather than Concordia University, so we pride ourselves on being able to independently work in your best interest. For almost 20 years, the AC has developed a mature network of collaborative relationships and bridges within the university in order to best support and assist students towards clear answers and solutions. 

Absolutely! Our office operates under a strict confidentiality policy. When you consult us, we routinely go through a formal intake process that establishes confidentiality and consent in the handling of any information. 

Both undergraduate and graduate students have access to the CSU AC, as both pay a fee-levy directly to the CSU AC. Furthermore, if you are a graduate student, you will be directed to a Student Advocate who is specifically trained in the School of Graduate Studies (SGS) procedures.