Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the unique features
of the Ombuds Office?
A: Confidentiality, informality, neutrality
and impartiality. Confidentiality means that the Ombuds will not
identify the identity of anyone contacting the office, except where required
by law or where consent is given. Informality means that the Ombuds Office
operates outside the formal appeal or grievance process. The Ombuds Office
does not maintain records for the University.
Neutrality means that the Ombuds is impartial and does not take
sides when hearing a problem or concern. The Ombuds is not a decision-maker
and will not adjudicate, testify, or participate in any formal process.
Independence means that the Ombuds Office is a separate and distinct department.
Although the Ombuds does report to the Chancellor, such reports
are solely statistical in nature.
Q: When should I contact the Ombuds
Office?
A: When you have a problem and don't where
to go, or when you know where to take your problem but are having difficulty
getting there. Some examples of the type of concerns received by the Ombuds
Office include but are not limited to:
- Interpersonal conflicts
- Disagreement over grades
- Working conditions
- Sexual harassment
- Discrimination
- Clarification of policies or procedures, and
- Conflict resolution training
If you are not sure whether the Ombuds Office can be of assistance, just
ask. Even if the Ombuds Office is unable to assist you directly, the Ombuds
will be able to refer you to the appropriate policy, procedures
or person.
Q: What if this is an emergency?
A: Call Campus Safety immediately: 303.871.3000
Q: When can I meet with the Ombuds?
A: Meetings are generally scheduled between
8:30 - 5:00, Monday - Friday. Upon request, the Ombuds can arrange
to meet at a different time or place, as is convenient and safe.
Q: Who is the Ombuds?
A: Jenna Brown started the Ombuds Office
in May, 1999. A member of the University and College Ombuds Association
(UCOA) and The Ombudsman Association (TOA), Jenna works closely with domestic
and international colleagues to ensure that DU's Ombuds Office complies
with on-going professional ethics and standards of practice.
Q: How can I learn more about organizational
ombuds?
A: Professional organization websites are
the best way to learn about this evolving field.
The University and College
Ombuds Association http://www.ucoa.org
The Ombudsman Association
http://www.ombuds-toa.org
Jenna Brown, Ombuds · Email ombuds@du.edu
303.871.4712 phone · 303.871.2748 fax
Copyright © 2002 University of Denver,
2199 S. University Blvd., Denver, Colorado 80208
(303) 871-2000 All rights reserved. · page last revised July 7, 2005.
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