When to Contact the Ombuds Office

There are many circumstances under which people can benefit from an “off the record” conversation with someone knowledgeable about academic life and university policies. Topics you may want to discuss could involve conflicts with colleagues or supervisors, communication problems, concerns about job status and work environment, and questions about what options are available for handling a problem according to university policy. Or, you may wish to learn what resources are available to you, request a reality check, or request information about the responsibilities of all parties. Topics might include:

  • Interpersonal difficulties with colleagues, subordinates, or supervisors
  • Departmental and interdepartmental conflicts
  • Preparing for a difficult conversation
  • Harassment or discrimination
  • Violations of university policy
  • Workplace disputes
  • Bureaucratic frustrations
  • Ethical dilemmas
  • Cultural misunderstandings
  • Conflicts of interest
  • Disciplinary actions
  • Research misconduct
  • Incivility or rudeness
  • Health and safety concerns
  • Unprofessional conduct
  • Academic freedom and integrity
  • Protecting your reputation
  • Retaliation
  • Formal processes and procedures
Crop close up of male business partners sit at desk with hands clasped talk at meeting in office.

The Ombuds Office is made available to visitors with the express understanding that it provides them with a confidential, independent, neutral and alternate channel of communication. Please be aware that the Ombuds Office does not record formal complaints on behalf of the University of Connecticut, and the Ombuds Office is not designated by UConn as an individual authorized to receive reports of any violations of university policy. Therefore, communications made to the Ombuds Office regarding possible violations of university policies or of unlawful practices do not constitute notice to UConn or UConn Health. This allows the Ombuds to preserve the confidential and impartial nature of the office.

If you would like to make a formal complaint and put the University on notice of an issue, the Ombuds will provide you with the appropriate method to do so and refer you to the appropriate office and policy.  Individuals who choose to utilize the services offered by the Ombuds Office should understand that efforts to seek to compel an ombudsman to reveal confidential communications in formal or legal proceedings are wholly contrary to the purpose of the office and will be resisted.