Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ombudsman?
What kinds of concerns are brought to the ombudsman?
Where do I find the ombudsman?
When should I contact the ombudsman?
What can this office do?
What is an ombudsman?
Webster’s Dictionary defines ombudsman as "one that investigates reported complaints, reports findings, and helps to achieve equitable settlements."
The purpose of the ombudsman is to assist members of the university community in solving problems and conflicts. We listen, discuss issues, answer questions, interpret policies, provide information and referrals and help develop options for problem resolution. The ombudsman serves as an advocate for fairness for all members of the university community.
The ombudsman is:
- accessible, working with all members of the university community, including students, faculty and staff.
- independent, reporting directly to the Provost and through the Provost to the President.
- unbiased, considering the rights and interests of all parties involved, searching for fair solutions.
What kinds of concerns are brought to the ombudsman?
You may discuss any concern confidentially with the ombudsman. Issues brought to the ombudsman typically involve:
- academics
- admissions
- judicial concerns
- discrimination
- cultural conflicts
- instructor/student misunderstanding
- grade appeal
- financial concerns
- housing
- testing procedures
- roommate concerns
- unethical behavior
- fear of retaliation
... and many more
Where do I find the ombudsman?
We invite you to call for a phone consultation or to schedule an appointment. While scheduling an appointment is recommended, walk-ins are always welcome in room 31 Tigert Hall.
When should I contact the ombudsman?
You can contact the Office of the Ombudsman anytime!
Instructors, academic advisers, department chairpersons, deans and directors are all experts at handling specific types of problems and should, in most cases, be consulted first. However, in some situations these official channels may involve lengthy or damaging delays. In these situations contact the ombudsman early in the process.
Contact us if:
- you are unsure with whom to speak, or what options are available.
- you feel that you have been unfairly or inequitably treated as a member of the university community
- you feel that a university policy, procedure or regulation has been applied unfairly or in error, or is itself unfair.
- you have a problem that requires someone to help negotiate a solution, or to facilitate you communication with faculty, staff, or others.
- you have a complaint about an office or service.
- you want to discuss a sensitive issue in confidence.
What can this office do?
The ombudsman can help when other approaches have failed. After proceeding through regular channels you may find you still require information or assistance. The ombudsman will help identify additional options.
The ombudsman can
- answer your questions.
- evaluate your situation.
- explain UF policies and procedures.
- develop options for addressing your concern.
- assist you in finding a solution.
- refer you to appropriate persons, arrange meetings.
- recommend changes in procedures or policies to university officials.