Ombuds
The purpose of the Ombuds office is to assist students, staff, and faculty in resolving problems and conflicts that arise in the course of interacting with the University of Florida. By considering problems in an unbiased way, the Ombuds works to help students and staff find solutions to university related problems and concerns.
The role of the Ombuds is to serve as a resource and designated neutral party for students, faculty and staff who may have a university related concern or problem. Such problems may be related to grades, difference of opinion with instructors or co-workers, interpretation of university policies, or other administrative issues that may be of concern. The Ombuds works with staff, faculty and students to interpret university policy, and help identify options and strategies for resolving issues.
Students are advised to first contact the instructor, the department chairperson, and/or the college dean before seeking assistance from the Ombuds, although instances do exist where contact with the University Ombuds first is beneficial.
The Office of the University Ombuds has been configured to handle university matters for staff and all levels of students including undergraduates, graduates, and professional students.
The Ombuds is independent in structure, function, and appearance to the highest degree possible within the organization.
The Ombuds, as a designated neutral, remains unaligned and impartial. The Ombuds does not engage in any situation which could create a conflict of interest.
The Ombuds holds all communications with those seeking assistance in strict confidence, and does not disclose confidential communications unless given permission to do so. The only exception to this privilege of confidentiality is where there appears to be imminent risk of serious harm or in cases involving sexual harassment.
The Ombuds, as an informal resource, does not participate in any formal adjudicative or administrative procedure related to concerns brought to his/her attention.
| Quick Links |
| Contact Information 31 Tigert Hall PO Box 113155 Gainesville, FL 32611-3155 Phone: 352-392-1308 FAX: 392-1350 |
The purpose of the Ombuds is to assist students within the university community in solving problems and conflicts. The Ombuds will listen, discuss issues, answer questions, interpret policies, provide information and referrals and help develop options for problem resolution. The Ombuds serves as an advocate for fairness for University of Florida students.
The Staff Ombuds is a private, impartial, informal, and independent resource that provides informal conflict resolution and problem-solving services to University of Florida staff. The Office of the Staff Ombuds does not provide legal advice, nor does it take the place of any formal process that would normally be available to staff members of the University community. Visiting the Office of the Staff Ombuds is voluntary and allows staff members to discuss and work through issues related to their employment in an informal and private setting prior to taking any formal action.
The Ombuds provides informal, impartial, and independent assistance for faculty and postdocs seeking information on University conflict resolution processes.