What an Ombuds Does

Responses to issues brought to the Ombuds Office are tailored to the individual’s situation and informed consent. For example, the Ombuds can:

Actively listen to your questions and concerns
Offer information about university policies, procedures, and programs
Discuss your concerns and clarify issues
Help identify and evaluate a range of options for resolving a problem
Gather information and offer referral to other resources when appropriate
Advise you on steps to resolve a problem informally
Facilitate communication indirectly or, when given permission, through serving as an impartial third party
Work for collaborative agreements through negotiation or mediation
Track perceived issues and trends
Make recommendations for review of policies or procedures to appropriate bodies

Make decisions, findings of fact, or determine the “guilt” or “innocence” of those accused of wrongdoing
Establish, change, or set aside policies or administrative decisions
Offer legal advice
Offer psychological counseling
Participate in grievances or other formal processes
Serve as an agent of notice for the University of Connecticut
Serve as an advocate for any individual