How We Can Help

The Ombudsperson investigates problems, complaints, or disputes brought to the attention of our office. The Ombudsperson has broad powers of inquiry to undertake conflict resolution, remediation, formal third-party intervention, or diplomacy as needed and can act independently and impartially to:

• mediate disputes with focus on productive resolution
• facilitate meetings, as needed, to maintain topic focus and draw participants into constructive dialogue
• offer information for referral or additional resources

The Ombudsperson has no formal decision-making authority, but can help you explore your options--from simply talking about the problem to pursuing a formal grievance proceeding.

The Ombuds Office supplements but does not replace current resources for conflict resolution and existing standing committees. The Ombudsperson will not participate in existing academic procedures or formal grievance processes. Our aim is to resolve issues before formal action is pursued.