The Office of the Ombudsperson responds to problems and disputes brought forward by all members of the University community—students, staff, and faculty—which appear unresolvable through existing procedures or systems. The Ombudsperson investigates claims of unfair treatment or erroneous procedure, and serves as a neutral and detached listener, information resource, adviser, intermediary and mediator. The Ombudsperson considers all sides of a question in an impartial and objective way.

The Ombudsperson is an independent entity—not part of, and not reporting to, the University administration. All requests and consultations are treated in the strictest confidence; the Ombudsperson will never divulge a client’s name or the nature of his or her complaint without the client’s consent. Complainants can consult with the Ombudsperson without fear of exposure.

For many problems, a procedure is outlined by University rules or polices. Where practical, faculty or staff members should discuss problems with department chairs and/or supervisors; students should observe the Policies and Regulations affecting Students handbook. The appropriate academic advisor, department head, supervisor, chairperson, dean, or other administrator should normally be consulted before contacting the Ombudsperson.

Sometimes, however, an individual may have reasons for not advancing a complaint through official channels. These channels may mean lengthy delays, or entail a lack of confidentiality and/or impartiality which may be detrimental to the complainant’s case. In these situations, the Ombudsperson may present a desirable alternative.

The Ombudsperson has no power to order changes in rules, regulations, policies, procedures, or the behavior of others. Solutions reached through the Office of the Ombudsperson are nonbinding; it is the responsibility of the involved parties to see that they are implemented. Through the use of moral persuasion, however, and by virtue of its respected position within the University community, the Office of the Ombudsperson successfully provides an effective route for solving problems.