Campus Scene May

  1. An Ombudsperson, or Ombuds, is a confidential and off-the-record resource for students who can assist with the resolution of disputes, conflict management, and problem solving.
Students can benefit from connecting with the office in a variety of ways, including: gaining assistance with conflicts, general information-seeking or simply finding someone to talk to. You might also consider contacting the Student Ombuds Office if you:
  1. Do not know how to proceed;
  2. Believe you have been treated unfairly;
  3. Are unsure of which policy or process might apply in your situation;
  4. Would like help facilitating communication;
  5. Are having a difficult time resolving a problem or finding an answer to your question;
  6. Would like help navigating university-related concerns;
  7. Are unsure of where to go, who to talk to or what options exist at CMU to address your situation;
  8. Believe the University should review, revise or improve policies and procedures.
Students may contact the Students Ombuds Office with any question, concern or challenge related to Central Michigan University. Previous visitors have discussed a variety of topics, including:
  1. Final course grades and the Grade Grievance Policy;
  2. Misunderstandings involving an instructor, staff member or peer;
  3. Concerns related to graduation eligibility;
  4. Disciplinary matters;
  5. Matters related to accessibility and accommodations;
  6. Situations involving alleged harassment or discrimination;
At any time during your pursuit of information or resolution to your concern; when you are just getting started, when you feel like you have exhausted your options, or at any point along the way.
After you connect with the Student Ombuds Office, the Ombuds will spend some time explaining the role of the office and addressing any urgent questions you have. After that, the Ombuds will:
  1. Listen intently and without judgement to understand and discuss challenges, complaints and concerns that you may share about the University, including its policies and procedures, the actions of others and unfair treatment;
  2. Offer information about relevant policies and procedures;
  3. Help you identify and evaluate different options to address your unique situations and decide what steps to take, if any;
  4. Provide a safe, confidential space where students feel respected and can speak openly to share their thoughts, concerns and questions;
  5. Answer questions or consult with others who can answer them;
  6. Connect visitors with offices, resources and services to create a more robust network;
  7. Coach visitors on conflict resolution skills;
  8. Facilitate communication between parties finding it difficult to solve a problem.
The Ombudsperson will not:
  1. Participate in formal grievance processes, hearings or investigations;
  2. Establish, change or override policies or academic or administrative decisions;
  3. Provide legal advice or serve as a substitute for anyone's lawyer;
  4. Provide clinical mental health treatment;
  5. Serve as an advocate for any person or party;
  6. Serve as an agent of notice for Central Michigan University;
  7. Keep official University files and records.