Listen to you and discuss your problems/concerns, identifying and evaluating with you options to resolve problems.
Provide information on resources within the University that may help you.
Open avenues of communication, investigate complaints, and gather information.
Serve as a neutral party to solve problems and resolve conflict. The ombuds does not take sides, but works to achieve fair outcomes.
May offer to arrange a mediation to resolve conflict between two or more people.
Identifies problem areas facing faculty, staff, and students, and recommends changes in University policies and procedures.
The ombuds is independent and works to resolve issues through a fair process.
The ombuds is informal and keeps no notes or information on you or your visits.
The ombuds is impartial and makes sure that all sides have equal consideration.
The ombuds is confidential and will not discuss you or your concerns with anyone without your permission to the extent legally permissible and consistent with maintaining the safety and public welfare of the university and its students, faculty members, staff members, and visitors. In cases where information reported to the Ombuds indicates that there may be a violation of the university’s Title IX Policy, the Ombuds will be obligated to report that information to the Title IX coordinator, in keeping with that policy. However, unless the factual circumstances indicate a threat to the safety of an individual or the university community, the Ombuds is not required to report the name of, or otherwise identify sexual assault victims/survivors where confidentiality is requested.
See the Ombuds if ...
You have a problem, concern or issue at work.
You don’t know where to go for help.
You are reluctant to go through formal channels for assistance.
You need a safe place to explore your options without retribution.