According to Google, an ombudsman is a Swedish originated word meaning “an official that investigates, reports on, and helps settle complaints.” Many people don’t realize this, but we have an Ombuds Office on our campus!
The University Ombuds Office (UOO) at Oregon State was established in 2012 to provide an accessible, confidential, neutral, independent, and informal resource for resolution and management of problems and conflicts to all University community members.
If you discuss an issue with the UOO, you can be confident that an Ombuds will:
- Listen to all concerns and perspectives
- Facilitate communication or mediate between individuals or groups
- Value diversity
- Provide a safe and confidential place to share issues
- Assist in researching resources and options to aid in the resolution of conflict
- Remain impartial to all parties involved in a conflict
- Recommend ways to improve policies and procedures
- Assist employees and students in navigating their way through university systems
In addition to helping people mediate their conflicts, the UOO also can help people identify their personal conflict management style, provide tips for collaboration, as well as advice for dealing with difficult situations.
The University Ombuds Office, located in 116 Waldo Hall is a free resource to all members of the OSU community for group training or individual appointments. To schedule an appointment, call the office at 541-737-4537 or email ombuds@oregonstate.edu.
