What an Organizational Ombud Can and Cannot Do
What an Ombud CAN Do
- Listen to you in a nonjudgmental and objective way
- Answer your questions or refer you to someone who can
- Explain how University policies or procedures work
- Help you identify options to resolving a problem
- Help you evaluate your options and possible next steps
- Assist you in informally resolving a dispute or conflict by facilitating communication, coaching on conflict resolution, or mediating between willing parties
- Refer you to the appropriate office should you wish to file a formal complaint
- Look into perceived procedural irregularities in grievance proceedings
- Recommend changes to policies/procedures that appear outdated or problematic
- Inform University officials about significant trends and patterns of complaints or problems that appear to be systemic
Concerns That Are Commonly Received By An Ombud
- You have experienced Bullying
- Have a question or a complaint about an office, service, or decision at the University
- Need a mediator or help facilitating communication
- Perceived inequities in work or pay; treated unfairly
- Believe a University policy or practice is unfair or confusing
- Perceived unethical or inappropriate behavior
- Interpersonal conflicts and problems with workplace climate
- Concerns about career advancement & job satisfaction or security
- Concerns about Promotion, Tenure and Evaluation processes
- Advice on having a difficult conversation
- Problems of institutional non-responsiveness and red-tape
- Need an impartial and confidential sounding board
- Are not sure where else to turn for help
TEDx on Ombuds Services
What an Ombud CanNOT Do
- Take sides or serve as an advocate for any party
- Maintain official records
- Unilaterally change rules or policies
- Set aside a decision or supersede the authority of another University official
- Provide legal advice
- Provide psychological counseling or therapy
- Participate in any formal grievance process
- Conduct formal investigations
- Provide testimony in any court initiated proceeding
- The office has no authority but does have the power of persuasion available to it
- The Ombud's Office is not an "office of official notice" for the University. If you would like to make a complaint officially, please consult the office of the President, Provost or other Vice President, Equity and Diversity/EEO, Legal Counsel, or other offices.