Services provided by the Faculty Ombuds Office
The Faculty Ombuds Office will:
· offer timely support
· provide confidential, neutral, informal, and independent consultation, and mediation if requested
· listen respectfully and non-judgmentally
· help faculty gain perspective on issues, problems, and/or concerns
· clarify University governance structures and suggest appropriate referrals
· help identify resources, evaluate a range of options, and discuss possible next steps
· support fair process and open communication
Limitations of the Faculty Ombuds Office
The Faculty Ombuds Office does not:
· advocate for individuals, departments, or divisions
· receive notice of a grievance under the APSOU Collective Bargaining Agreement
· receive notice of a grievance under the Bylaws of the SOU Faculty Constitution
· receive notice of any other legal claim against the University brought forward by the faculty member in a confidential setting
· participate in formal investigations or administrative processes
· revise or rescind policies and administrative decisions
· provide psychological counseling
· offer legal advice
· testify or gather evidence
· share confidential information, unless there is imminent risk of serious harm or disclosure is otherwise required by law
