The Offices of the Ombuds provide confidential, impartial, informal and independent conflict resolution and problem-solving assistance to all university staff, faculty and medical school students. The Offices of the Ombuds offer a safe place to voice university-related concerns and review options to manage and address those concerns. Additionally, the Offices of the Ombuds serve as a catalyst for change by identifying patterns or trends on campus, sharing feedback and making recommendations about university policy or practice when appropriate to those at the university who may have the power to effect change.
Operating under the International Ombuds Association Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice, ombuds provide essential support to those facing unique challenges. Ombuds serve as a trusted thought partner where faculty, staff, graduate students and medical communities can freely discuss concerns, without fear of reprisal or judgment, to explore creative solutions to difficult problems.
In addition to individual support through private consultations, the Ombuds at WashU contribute to institutional health by identifying patterns in workplace challenges and providing feedback on systemic issues. While maintaining confidentiality, ombuds operate outside of formal administrative channels, allowing them to offer unbiased observations and recommendations. This unique positioning enables the ombuds to effectively support early, informal conflict resolution and helps the university work towards excellence and positive change.
The Ombuds Can:
- Provide a safe place to discuss issues and surface concerns
- Listen
- Help think through and evaluate possible options
- Obtain clarity on WashU policies and procedures
- Gather relevant information from other resources
- Assist in preparing for an important conversation
- Facilitate conversations between two or more people
- Make referrals to other campus resources
- Track trends
- Recommend policy changes when appropriate
- Suggest constructive processes for addressing challenging issues
- Provide tailored conflict resolution education and training
- Promote fairness and equity
The Ombuds Can Not:
- Take sides or advocate for any individual, group or the university
- Make decisions
- Offer legal advice
- Provide psychological counseling
- Establish, change or set aside policies
- Accept formal complaints or serve as an agent of notice for WashU
- Replace any formal process of the university
- Conduct investigations, adjudicate or arbitrate any dispute
- Serve as a witness in any administrative or legal proceeding at WashU or elsewhere
- Maintain records