Ethical Principles

Integrity and respect sit at the core of what we do and who we are. Like the Ombuds who've come before, extending from generation to generation, we operate under a code of Ethical Principles. 

The Ombuds works independently of any other office at CMU and exercises sole discretion over whether or how to act in a situation. 

Working with the Ombuds is informal, voluntary and "off the record". The Ombuds has no formal authority to change any decision or policy at CMU or conduct formal investigations. The Ombuds will explain and clarify formal processes that may exist, but does not play a role in them.

Talking with the Ombuds does not put the university "on notice" of any potential legal claim or policy violation. If you wish to notify the university of a potential ethical, legal or policy violation, the Ombuds will work with you to find the proper channel for making that complaint.

Confidentiality is an important aspect of working with the Ombuds. The Ombuds will not identify you or discuss your concerns with anyone without your permission. The only exceptions to confidentiality involve preventing imminent harm or violations of the Sexual and Gender-Based Misconduct Policy.

The Ombuds is a neutral party and advocates for fairness and equitable treatment. The Ombuds considers the interests and concerns of all parties involved in a situation or dispute and seeks ways to create mutual understanding in pursuit of resolution.