Who is the University Ombuds?

The University Ombuds is a neutral individual who listens to concerns, grievances and other climate issues and provides conflict-resolution services to the University community including faculty, staff, student employees and non-employed students in a safe and welcoming environment.

Communications with the University Ombuds remain strictly confidential unless express permission to do otherwise is granted by the visitor or the Ombuds is required to disclose based on applicable University policy, legal considerations, or a perceived imminent risk of harm to self or others. The Ombuds does not advocate on behalf of any one person or group, but will advocate for an unbiased process and consider the rights and concerns of all those involved. The Ombuds communicates with various representatives and offices to respond to and help resolve concerns in a timely manner.

If you are a student with academic concern related to enrollment, please contact the Student Assistance Services.

Organizational Ombuds: An important resource in Turbulent Times


Contact the University Ombuds

Communications between university employees and the University Ombuds is confidential unless there is knowledge of harm to self or others and to the extent permissible by law. Otherwise, conversations are considered off-the-record. Learn more about communications with Ombuds.

 

Call Us
210-458-5605 (office)
210-843-2818 (cell)


Central Principles

Confidential

Communications are strictly confidential and the Ombuds will not confirm communicating with any party or disclose any confidential information without the visitor’s express permission and at the discretion of the Ombuds. However, the Ombuds will disclose confidential information if given permission by the visitor, or when there is an imminent risk of physical harm; or is required to do so based on applicable University policy or the law.

Informal

The Ombuds is a resource for off-the-record conversations and informal dispute resolution only. No records or investigations, or mandates. The Ombuds is not HR. HR is a formal process with documented records and employee accountability. With the exception of HOP 2.34, Faculty Grievance Procedure, use of the Ombuds is voluntary and not a required step in most grievance processes.

Neutral

The Ombuds is a neutral and impartial resource for resolving issues, voicing concerns, and will not take sides in any conflict, dispute or issue. The Ombuds will impartially consider the interests and concerns of all parties involved in a situation with the aim of facilitating communication and assisting the parties in reaching mutually acceptable agreements that are fair and equitable, and consistent with the mission and policies of the University.

Independent

The Ombuds Office is not aligned with any person or department and is not an advocate for any person, group, or organization. The Ombuds Office does not provide legal advice or mental health counseling. The Ombuds Office is independent in scope and reports to the Office of Inclusive Excellence for administrative and budget purposes.