The University Ombuds Office reports directly to the President.  The Office operates as an avenue for informal, impartial and non-adversarial alternative for the resolution of problems and conflicts when the parties so request.  The Student Ombudsman position was created by the State Legislature and administers the Student Ombudsman Regulation and Policy.  The Student Ombudsman is a member of the Ombuds Office.

Download the Student Grievances regulation.

Download the Student Grievances policy

Consistent with the Collective Bargaining Agreement, the Faculty Ombuds handles faculty-related issues.

Some specific goals of the Ombuds Office include:

1. To act as a source of information and assistance and to promote better channels of communication throughout the University.
2. To act as referral agent and recommend available resources within the University that may be of assistance.
3. To provide an outlet that allows parties to seek problem-resolution before formal grievance or administrative review procedures are instituted.
4. To serve as a neutral party in conflict resolution of CBA-related concerns and to facilitate lines of communication as appropriate as requested.
5. To recommend changes in University policies and procedures when appropriate.

It is essential that the University Community recognize the independence of the office and know that the resolutions in all matters are to be based on fairness standards.  The Office is not an advocate for either party to a conflict.  To the greatest extent possible, consistent with legal requirements, information shared with the Ombuds Office will be held in confidence.