Welcome

The Ombuds office is a place where student questions, complaints and concerns about the functioning of the University can be discussed confidentially in a safe environment. The Office offers informal dispute resolution services, provides resources and referrals, and helps students consider options available to them. The Office operates independently as a supplement to existing administrative and formal dispute resolution processes and has no formal decision–making authority. The Office is not an advocate for either side in a dispute. Instead, the Ombuds Office is an impartial advocate for fair and consistent treatment. The Office reports administratively to the Vice President for Student Affairs.

Tom Lehker
Ombudsman

Standards

The Ombuds Office practices to the standards for Ombuds work as outlined by the International Ombuds Association. The Standards of confidentiality, neutrality, informality and independence form the basis of our work. Please see the International Ombuds Association website to learn more about our standards.

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Self-Help Resources

Resources, tips, and more about the language of dispute resolution.

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Academic Resources

If the conflict you are experiencing is with a faculty member about an academic matter, it may be useful for you to review the roles and responsibilities of faculty members as set forth in some or all of the following documents.

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University Resources

Groups and resources to assist you with mediation.

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Confidentiality

Confidentiality is a key characteristic of the Ombuds Office. The office does not divulge a client’s name or the nature of the issues being discussed without the client’s consent. With student permission, individuals whose help is necessary to resolve a specific problem may be contacted. The office acts only with your permission – except in the unusual situations of imminent risk of serious harm where there appears to be no responsible option except to act without permission.

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