What is an ombudsperson?

An ombudsperson facilitates the resolution of conflict. They promote fair practices, respect between parties, effective communication, cooperation and equity and civility in academic and work environments. They may serve as a fact-finding function or offer advice as an option for consideration by conflicting parties. They do not give official opinions or make formal or binding recommendations, do not serve as advocates for any person and do not decide what the outcome of a dispute should be. An ombudsperson strives for understanding by parties, respectful treatment, resolution of all concerns and development of a clear and mutually acceptable action plan.

The four pillars of an ombuds office are independence, neutrality, confidentiality and informality. An ombudsperson is as independent in structure, function and appearance as much as is possible within an institution. He or she operates autonomously as a neutral party, remaining unaligned and impartial — these pillars are drawn from the Ombuds Association Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics.

The ombudsperson fully maintains confidentiality when possible and avoids disclosing communications without permission to do so. Learn more about UTC’s ombuds confidentiality processes here (link this to the confidentiality page you will build).