Martha Patrick, M.Ed., CO-OP^Ⓡ
University Ombudsperson

Martha has worked in higher education for the past 25 years and has served as an ombudsperson for UMass Amherst since 2010. In her role she provides confidential, impartial, informal, and independent resolution services for students, faculty, and staff. She has earned CO-OP^Ⓡ certification through the International Ombuds Association and has specialized training in mediation, facilitation, and conflict coaching. Prior to joining the Ombuds Office, Martha spent a decade as the campus’ Community Relations Director, resolving conflicts and building bridges between the campus and local communities. Previously, she worked as the founding Director of the Rainbow Center at the University of Connecticut, and as a supervisor for a community mental health agency in Holyoke, Mass. Read her appointment announcement here.

Susan Pearson
Consulting Ombudsperson

Susan has served in a variety of roles at UMass Amherst since 1972, including Associate Provost and Associate Chancellor, working mostly in the areas of academic personnel and collective bargaining. She has served on the Board of Directors of the National Center for the Study of Collective Bargaining in Higher Education and as President of the Academy for Academic Personnel Administration. She joined the Ombuds Office on July 1, 2020.

Kristen Farrell
Office Manager

Kristen serves as the office manager for the Ombuds Office, providing scheduling and administrative assistance to staff and visitors. With a background in library services, higher education administration, and integrative health, she enjoys helping to support a caring campus community.