(1) A respondent who is aggrieved by the findings or conclusions issued by the vice president for instruction and student services or designee may appeal the initial decision to the president based solely upon procedural concerns by filing a notice of appeal with the president's office within twenty-one days of service of the committee's initial decision. Failure to file a timely appeal constitutes a waiver of the right and the initial decision shall be deemed final.

(2) The notice of appeal must identify the specific procedural concerns that are challenged and must contain argument why the appeal should be granted.

(3) The president shall provide a written decision to all parties within forty-five days after receipt of the notice of appeal. The president's decision shall be final and shall include a notice of any rights to request reconsideration and/or judicial review.

(4) The president may at his or her discretion, suspend any disciplinary action pending review of the merits of the findings, conclusions, and disciplinary actions imposed.

(5) The president shall not engage in an ex parte communication with any of the parties regarding an appeal.