The University Ombuds program at UNC Charlotte is a confidential, independent, impartial, and informal resource for faculty, staff, and graduate students to informally work through challenging workplace problems, dilemmas and conflicts. The office adheres to the International Ombuds Association Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.

The University Ombuds uses a number of interest-based techniques, such as coaching, facilitated discussions, and shuttle diplomacy, to help prevent problems from escalating and empower faculty, staff, and graduate students find productive, collaborative solutions to their own problems when appropriate.

Ombuds often help by providing an unbiased, non-judgmental listening ear to understand the situation, clarifying issues, by being a thought partner in exploring a full range of possible options, thinking through the pros and cons of the various choices, and helping visitors come to a decision on how they’d like to proceed. We also provide feedback on emerging or systemic concerns and recommendations for positive change to University policies and practices when appropriate.

Communications with the Ombuds Office are confidential. The only exceptions are when we believe that disclosure is necessary to address imminent risk of serious harm or if required by law. The Ombuds is not part of any formal administrative complaint procedure, and communicating with the Ombuds does not put UNC Charlotte on formal notice of a problem.

I look forward to meeting with you!

NEWS

10/28/2024 – Jen Amano returns to Niner Nation as Associate Ombuds, who will be expanding services to undergraduate students

9/3/2024 – The Ombuds office welcomes Loralee Hoffer, Organizational Science PhD student, who will be researching various aspects of the program throughout the academic year.

7/31/2024 – University Ombuds publishes Reflections 2024

8/3/2023 – University Ombuds publishes Reflections 2023

8/3/2023 – Graduate students begin receiving services through University Ombuds

5/6/2022 – Chancellor Gaber signs University Ombuds Charter

1/24/2022 – University Appoints First Faculty/Staff Ombuds