Learn what the ombudsman does and does not do in addressing your complaint.
The University of Maryland Global Campus ombudsman is a valuable resource whenever issues arise that require a confidential conversation or an impartial third party. To benefit fully from their services, you should understand the role of the ombudsman.
What an Ombudsman Does
The ombudsman is trained in conflict resolution and acts as a confidential, neutral resource for addressing the concerns of students, faculty, and staff. For example, the ombudsman can
- Discuss your concerns, clarify issues, and offer informal advice
- Provide information about UMGC policies, procedures, and programs
- Help identify and evaluate a range of options for resolving a problem
- Facilitate communication by serving as an impartial third party, where appropriate
- Work toward collaborative agreements through negotiation or mediation
- Make recommendations for review of policies to appropriate bodies
What an Ombudsman Does Not Do
The role of the ombudsman is not that of an attorney, jurist, arbitrator, therapist, or advocate. As such, the ombudsman cannot
- Make decisions or findings of fact
- Determine the guilt or innocence of those accused of wrongdoing
- Establish, change, or set aside university policies or administrative decisions
- Offer legal advice or psychological counseling
- Participate in grievances or other formal processes
- Serve as an agent of notice for UMGC or an advocate for any individual
