When to contact an Ombuds
Use of the Ombuds Office is encouraged when problems arise and individuals are unsure of their options and/or need assistance identifying and pursuing solutions.
Requesting assistance from and responding to the Ombuds Office are regarded as constructive actions that help foster a positive university culture and climate. The Faculty-Staff Handbook states that "the university prohibits any employee or student from discouraging or limiting another employee from accessing the office, or intimidating, threatening, coercing, retaliating, or discriminating against any individual because that individual raised an issue or participated in dispute resolution through the office..." [see FSH 3820 A-5]