Does not act as an advocate in a dispute. The Ombuds is neutral and impartial.
Does not represent individuals in appeals or formal grievance procedures either on campus or off campus.
Does not provide legal representation or give legal advice.
Does not get involved with non-University related problems or complaints.
Does not overturn binding decisions, but can investigate procedural fairness.
The Office of the Ombuds is not an office of record. Speaking with the Ombuds is not "notice to the University" of problems or policy violations. Often persons will seek advice from the Ombuds privately, before deciding what actions to take in response to a problem. If you want the University to "be on notice," that is, formally to know about a particular problem and formally respond, the Ombuds can help you identify which office to contact.
Does not keep formal written records. The Ombuds can help you determine how to keep your own records if you need to do that.
