Our Ombuds office is guided by IOA Standards of Practice.

 

We are confidential, informal, impartial, and independent.

 

Schedule a virtual or

in-person visit.

Are you stuck in a conflict? Do you need a neutral person to hear you out?

When you don't know what to do next to resolve an issue, you can come to the Ombuds Office. 

No matter your concern, the Ombuds Office is a resource to help point you in the right direction so you can get your issue resolved quickly and informally in a confidential way.

We don’t keep any official records and listen with a neutral and impartial stance although we are mandatory reporters of Title IX violations and any serious threat to harm self or others.  

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What does an Ombuds do? 

  • Listens
  • Clarifies policies and procedures
  • Offers an impartial perspective
  • Identifies resources
  • Provides options to issues
  • Coaches  for difficult conversations
  • Recommends constructive changes          in University policies 
  • Provides mediation services
  • Presents conflict resolution                          workshops and presentations

What are common issues brought

to the Ombuds? 

  • Interpersonal Disputes (e.g., roommates, faculty-student)
  • Bureaucratic Challenges
  • Academic Concerns (e.g., grade disputes, withdrawals)
  • Ethical Dilemmas 
  • Concerns about Safety &             Well-being
  • Fear of Retaliation

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The Ombudsman
Can

  • Listen as a neutral person
  • Provide information and referrals
  • Perform mediation between disputing parties
  • Help develop options for resolving problems or conflicts at university
  • Offer a neutral perspective
  • Prevent negative conflict through early intervention
  • Coach communication between parties for better outcomes

The Ombudsman
Can't

  • Advocate for individuals, or the university
  • Assist if you are engaged in any formal grievance process or are represented by legal council
  • Keep records
  • Testify at formal legal proceedings

Other Ombuds
Services & Workshops

  • Understanding personal conflict styles
  • Building dialogue skills
  • Conflict coaching
  • Facilitated dialogue
  • Mediation and conciliation
  • Restorative Justice

Mediation Services

Sexual Misconduct/Discrimination/Harassment Reporting

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Confidentiality Statement

 

All conversations with the Ombuds are confidential.

The Ombuds will not disclose any part of your conversation without your prior permission and no records are kept regarding your complaints.

If a matter becomes a formal action you cannot request the Ombuds to advocate against, for, or in support of any position. Rather, the Ombuds is an advocate for fair process.

The Ombuds is required to report or refer certain matters to the appropriate University and/or law enforcement officials including but not limited to matters of sexual misconduct, discrimination, child abuse, abuse of elderly or incapacitated person, or threats of physical violence.

EthicsPoint Reporting

Anyone can make online reports of concerns through EthicsPoint. Reports made through EthicPoint may be anonymous. Reports may be made on a wide range of issues including:

  • Academic Affairs/Faculty
  • Employee Conduct
  • Harassment and Discrimination
  • Legal/Compliance/Risk Management
  • Financial
  • Information Technology

Contact The Ombuds Office 

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