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 Building Cooperative Resolution--Enriching the Educational ExperienceThis office was established in 1999 to further the University mission of excellence in graduate education. The Office is available to all students with questions or concerns related to their graduate experience. The University is a large and complex institution; misunderstandings and conflicts can occur easily. The Ombuds Office provides confidential and informal assistance in resolving these conflicts and promotes fair and equitable treatment within the University.-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Role of the OmbudspersonThe Ombudsperson is an impartial, independent and confidential resource for graduate students at the University who helps to surface and resolve school issues. The Ombudsperson can also help to affect positive change by providing upward feedback on patterns of problems and complaints to appropriate senior officers.The word "Ombudsman" orginated in Sweden during the 19th Century, when the term applied to a public official appointed to investigate citizens' complaints against governmental agencies. The Ombudsperson is best described as "the person who has an ear to the people." The purpose of the Ombuds Office is to insure that the graduate student voice is heard, and that problems can receive impartial attention. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- What can you expect of the Ombuds Office?The Ombudsperson listens to your concerns, clarifies procedures, discusses options, and, when requested, may act as an intermediary. The Ombudsperson does not advocate for an individual. Rather, the Ombudsperson advocates for a fair process. The Ombudsperson works to promote the University's commitment to excellence in graduate education.The Ombuds person will:
What makes the Ombuds Office unique?Confidentiality. The Office is firmly committed to maintaining the confidentiality of those who use our services The Ombudsperson will not identify you or pass on your confidences to anyone without your permission, except when there appears to be imminent threat of serious harm.We keep no official records of vistors' names, affiliations, or concerns. If you wish for a problem or complaint to go on record, we will refer you to the appropriate office or person. Neutrality. The Ombudsperson does not take sides, but considers the interests and concerns of all parties to disputes, with the goal of achieving fair outcomes. The Ombudsperson does not arbitrate, adjudicate, testify, or participate in any formal grievance process. Independence. The Ombudsperson is outside the usual administrative structure of the University. The Ombudsperson reports to the Vice President for Research and Dean of the Graduate School, and is authorized to work with all members of the University community to resolve problems. Flexibility. The Ombuds Office provides an alternative to the formal grievances and complaint process. The Office emphasizes non-adversarial problem-solving options, rather than formal, rights-based options. While formal processes are appropriate in many situations, they emphasize pursuing justice through rules and regulations. Problem-solving options go beyond seeking justice to address underlying issues that may have given rise to disputes, so that future disputes can be avoided. Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice for the University of Maryland Ombuds Office for Graduate Students. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Joanne DeSiato Graduate Student Legal Aid Office Office of Judicial Programs |