Conflict is inevitable in life, but you don't have to manage it alone.
Students are encouraged to responsibly and respectfully resolve their complaints and concerns. But sometimes they need help to do that effectively, and that's what we're here for. If you’re in a pickle and having a hard time managing or resolving any type of conflict, the Ombuds can coach you through the resolution process to help everyone reach a win-win solution. Conflict Coaching empowers students by teaching strategic conflict resolution and communication skills that will benefit you for a lifetime.
All conflict coaching is confidential, and we don’t judge. We won’t take sides and we try to look at an issue from all angles to help you reach the best outcome. The goal is to put conflicts to rest before they escalate or become misconduct issues.
Mediation is set up to assist two or more parties in finding resolve to conflicts through the use of a neutral third party. The third party facilitates discussion between the dissenting parties and helps them brainstorm solutions and find resolve to their dispute. Mediation is often a great alternative to formal action and provides all parties with a sense of ownership and resolve.
All conversations with the Ombuds are confidential. The Ombuds will not disclose any part of your conversation without your prior permission and no records are kept regarding your complaints. If a matter becomes a formal action you cannot request the Ombuds to advocate against, for, or in support of any position. Rather, the Ombuds is an advocate for fair process.
The Ombuds is, however, required to report or refer certain matters to the appropriate University and/or law enforcement officials including but not limited to matters of sexual misconduct, discrimination, child abuse, abuse of elderly or incapacitated person, or threats of physical violence.