The Office of the University Ombudsperson promotes an inclusive and collaborative campus community by providing informal, independent, impartial, and confidential* conflict management services to all employees of the university. This office provides a safe space to share concerns on a broad range of workplace issues. The University Ombudsperson will help you explore options for resolving individual and group issues and can provide informal and confidential assistance with difficult and sensitive conversations. Ombudsperson services support Seattle University’s mission to provide an inclusive working environment that values diversity and promotes a humane and ethical working and learning climate.
The University Ombudsperson embraces diversity and inclusion through respectful dialogue and collaborative problem solving, provides a safe space to listen to the unique concerns of each visitor, and focuses on supporting the whole person when exploring options for conflict management and well-being. Staff and faculty seeking assistance from the office will be treated with dignity and respect and can expect individualized attention to their needs and concerns. All employees are welcome.
The University Ombudsperson is a designated neutral, impartial listener and facilitator whose major function is to provide confidential and informal guidance and support to Seattle University’s employees. The Ombudsperson will:
The University Ombudsperson operates according to the International Ombuds Association principles, standards of practice, and code of ethics: https://www.ombudsassociation.org/standards-of-practice-code-of-ethics . To assure accessibility to all SU employees, the office is a confidential, informal, impartial, and independent resource for employees to share their concerns and explore options for assistance. The office does not maintain personally identifying records and will not share a visitor’s identity without their permission. The University Ombudsperson functions independently and impartially when assisting employees. The University Ombudsperson does not advocate for any individual or group perspective. Rather, they promote the healthy, civil, and equitable resolution and management of conflicts and issues. The office supplements and compliments, but does not replace, existing formal grievance mechanisms at the university. The Ombudsperson does not participate in formal procedures.
Due to the confidential and informal nature of the Office of the University Ombudsperson, communication with this office does not constitute notice to Seattle University. Please remember that email is not appropriate for confidential discussions. Communications by email to the University Ombudsperson should be limited to requests for an appointment or general information sharing that is unrelated to confidential visits.
*Confidentiality cannot be promised in matters relating to threats to public safety, child abuse, vulnerable adults, or if there is imminent risk of serious harm.
