Our office operates on four core principles:

  • Independence: We are an independent office reporting directly to the Chief of Staff, Dr. Julius John. This allows us to provide unbiased advice and help without fear of reprisal.
  • Confidentiality: Conversations with the Ombudsman are kept strictly confidential. We will not share your name or any identifying details without your explicit permission, except where a life is in imminent danger or required by law.
  • Informality: The Ombudsman is not a formal part of the university's grievance or disciplinary process. We can help you explore options, facilitate communication, and informally resolve issues, but we do not conduct formal investigations or make binding decisions.
  • Impartiality: We are a neutral party. We do not advocate for any individual, but instead for fair and equitable processes for everyone.

Why See the Ombuds?

You can reach out to the Ombudsman for a variety of reasons, including:

  • Confidential help in clarifying a university policy or procedure.
  • Discussing a conflict or concern with a faculty member, staff, or fellow student.
  • Exploring options for resolving a dispute without entering a formal process.
  • Receiving guidance on where to go for a specific issue.