Key Roles of the Ombuds Office
In Relation to Students
The Ombuds Office is where students can discuss current or anticipated disputes and conflicts with the University, as well as concerns and complaints in a confidential, informal and safe environment. The Office offers informal dispute resolution services, provides resources and referrals, and helps the University’s diverse students understand their rights as they consider available options.
The Office is not an advocate for either side in disputes. Instead, the Ombuds Office is a neutral and impartial advocate for fair and consistent treatment. The office operates as an independent supplement to existing administrative and formal dispute resolution processes and has no formal decision–making authority.
In Relation to the University
The Ombuds Office believes that disputes and conflicts can often be "gifts" to help the University understand how it can change and improve. Thus, the Office promotes positive organizational change by facilitating improvements in University policies, procedures, services and systems to better serve students.