ATHENS, Ohio -- Elizabeth Graham, professor and associate director of the School of Interpersonal Communication, has been named Ohio University ombudsman effective July 1, interim Provost Gary Schumacher announced today.

"Elizabeth Graham's administrative experience in the School of Interpersonal Communication, her work on relationship change, and her own interpersonal skills provide a strong background for the position of Ombudsman," said Schumacher. " I am confident that she will be an excellent ombudsman for the university."

The ombudsman is responsible for ensuring those in the University community receive fair and equitable treatment and impartial resolution to the problems and concerns raised by students, faculty and staff.

"I hope to continue the tradition of good counsel and problem solving that my predecessor, Butch Hill, established and to work to maintain a civil and respectful environment at Ohio University," said Graham. "The ombudsman's office is one of the few positions on campus that can serve all members of the university community."

Graham replaces Herman (Butch) Hill who completed a five-year term as ombudsman.