Standards of Practice/Ethical Principles

The Office of Student Ombudsperson Services operates according to the International Ombuds Association (IOA) Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. For details, please refer to the pdf online documents from the IOA: Code of Ethics [pdf] & Standards of Practice [pdf].

Confidentiality

The Office of Student Ombudsperson holds all communications with those seeking assistance in strict confidence, and does not disclose one’s identity and confidential communications unless given permission to do so.  The only exception to this privilege of confidentiality is where there appears to be imminent risk of serious harm to self or others or issues about sexual misconduct.  No permanent records are maintained other than general demographic and incident data for reporting trends.

Impartiality

The Office of Student Ombudsperson Services operates impartially.  The Student Ombudsperson does not take sides in any issue.  The Ombudsperson does not advocate on behalf of the student or the university but rather promotes fair and equitable processes and procedures.

Informality

The Office of Student Ombudsperson Services operates informally.  All communications are “off-the-record.”  The Student Ombudsperson does not make any judgments or participate in any internal or external formal processes.