Ombudspersons

Ombudspersons (ombuds) assist faculty with concerns, complaints, and internal disputes that arise within the university. The ombud’s primary role is to be a safe, confidential, and neutral party who listens to concerns and then connects faculty to resources and information regarding policies and procedures within the University. Ombuds do not participate in decision-making about a complaint or dispute. Ombuds do not represent, advocate, or mediate for individual faculty. An ombud may support faculty by attending meetings as an unbiased and impartial listener.

Five faculty ombuds shall be selected by the Faculty Senate Executive Committee on staggered 5-year terms, one each from the College of Business Administration; the College of Arts, Social Sciences, & Humanities; the College of Science and Health; the School of Education; and one at-large. If any ombud themself complains, grieves, or appeals, or if they recuse themselves owing to bias or conflict of interest, one of the other ombuds shall assume responsibility for the case. Two alternates shall also be appointed. An alternate shall complete the term for any ombud who vacates the role in case of resignation or disqualification.

Faculty who are tenured at the associate level or higher are eligible to serve. Ombuds shall not be members of the Hearing Committee or CGAAF. Eligible candidates will demonstrate a record of service to the university, knowledge of university policies and resources, strong communication skills, ability to be objective and impartial, and must be willing to participate in professional development and training related to the role.