What doesn the Ombuds Office do?
The Ombuds Office does not offer legal advice or mental health counseling, does not have any formal authority to render decisions about issues brought to the office, and does not participate in formal hearings or other formal processes. The Ombudsperson does not record formal complaints on behalf of the University, and the Ombudsperson is not designated by the University as an individual authorized to receive reports of any violations of University policy. Communications made to the Ombudsperson regarding possible violations of University policies or of unlawful practices do not constitute notice to the University. This allows the Ombudsperson to preserve the confidential and impartial nature of the office. If you need or want to file a formal complaint, the Ombudsperson will refer you to the appropriate office and/or policy.
Related Questions
- I want to use the Ombuds Office to resolve a conflict with my colleague, but my colleague doesn’t want to participate. What do I do now?
- I don’t work on campus; I’m out in the field/in a county office/in a study abroad location. Can I use the Ombuds Office?
- My salary is paid entirely out of grant funds. Am I eligible to use the Ombuds Office?