How the Ombudsperson can help?

The Ombudsperson is someone you can turn to when you have concerns or you need assistance in resolving difficult issues. He/she will protect your privacy and maintain strict confidentiality, except in rare instances where your safety or the safety of others may be in jeopardy. Additionally, the Ombudsperson will not discuss or take action on your issue without first seeking your permission. Lastly, your visit with the Ombudsperson will not affect your grades or relationship with the University. The Ombudsperson and the University wants to see you succeed and will strive to protect you from any repercussions.

The Ombudsperson will:

• Listens intently and discusses conflicts, disputes, concerns and complaints that student have about the functioning of the University, including its policies and procedures, the actions of others and potential unfair treatment.
• Promotes the development of critical thinking and problem solving skills by helping students understand their rights and act on their own behalf in resolving conflicts.
• Helps students evaluate and select among a variety of options to address their concerns.
• Provides a confidential setting where students feel respected.
• Answers questions or makes referrals to University officials/faculty to seek further information.
• Makes appropriate referrals for mediation, counseling and/or advisement– assists in creating a helping network for students.
• Coaches students on dispute resolution skills.
• Advises students about informal and formal problem resolution possibilities.
• Intervenes between parties finding it difficult to resolve a problem.

The Ombudsperson will not:

• Directly participate in formal grievance processes, hearings or judicial processes.
• Make administrative or academic decisions for offices or departments of the University.
• Determine “guilt” or “innocence” of those accused of wrongdoing.
• Give legal advice.