Ombudsperson
(Omm-BUDZ-persen) n. 1. A person who receives complaints, concerns, or questions and works informally to facilitate fair settlements, especially between aggrieved parties such as students and an institution, or organization.

The Ombudsperson...

Listens carefully and asks questions to help analyze the situation.
Examines University policies and procedures and provides information.
Assists in identifying and evaluating available options.
Helps in identifying the next steps in solving a problem.
Holds all information as confidential.
Makes referrals to other campus and community resources.

You Should Contact the Ombudsperson When...

You are unsure of the policies and procedures that may apply to your situation.
You believe a policy or procedure has been applied unfairly.
You have a complaint about an office or service within the University.
You want to discuss a sensitive issue in confidence in order to evaluate your alternatives.
You are unsure of where to go, or what resources to use.

Common topics brought to the Ombudsperson for assistance concern faculty/acdemic issues; administrative policies, procedures, and practices; fees and charges on the student statement of account; disciplinary matters; interpersonal conflicts; and use of services on campus.

The Ombudsperson Does Not Get Involved When...

You want someone to represent you in a grievance procedure.
You want someone to advocate for you in a dispute.
You want someone to overturn previous decisions.
You want legal advice and representation.
You want someone to mediate disputes between the University community and private individuals or organizations.

The Ombudsperson is available to see students on a drop-in or on an appointment basis. We're happy to provide an overview of our services first, and then discuss your particular question or concern. The Ombudsperson may collect demographic and satisfaction feedback data from visitors for statistical purposes only. The Ombudsperson otherwise does not keep records of visitors to the office.

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