• To ensure that all students and employees receive fair and equitable treatment within the UMass Amherst system.
• To make recommendations, where appropriate, for general changes in university structures and procedures, and to stimulate discussion of wider institutional issues.

• All members of the University of Massachusetts Amherst community: students, faculty and staff.

WHAT WE DO

• Help resolve conflicts impartially without judging, rewarding or punishing parties.
• Mediate disputes.
• Facilitate communication.
• Provide appropriate information and referral to grievance procedures and other services.
• Investigate claims of unfair treatment or erroneous procedure.
• Listen, advise, and make recommendations.

CONFIDENTIALITY

• Records, contacts and communications are normally confidential; in unusual circumstances (which are explained to clients), rare exceptions are made if required by law.
• If you request assistance, your name is not used in a case investigation without your permission.
• To resolve disputes the Ombuds Office has the right of access to most University records, reports, and documents.

THE ROLE WE PLAY

• The Ombuds Office does not have the power to change rules, regulations, policies, or procedures, but rather to make recommendations to the university for changes and to help you find a resolution to your situation.
• In our experience, the great majority of university faculty, staff, and students have been responsive to recommendations by the Ombuds Office.
• The Ombuds Office does not automatically take your side in a matter but rather considers all sides in an impartial way.

TYPES OF CONCERNS THE OMBUDS OFFICE HANDLES

• Interpersonal conflicts
• Personnel issues
• Administrative matters
• Academic disputes
• Ethical concerns

Who are we?

Catharine Porter - Ombudsperson
Mary Wardwell - Assistant Ombudsperson
Kay Politella - Executive Secretary

How to reach us?

Other Campus Resources:

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