Who

The Ombudsman serves stakeholders and constituents of Athens & Regional Campuses, including:

• Faculty
• Staff
• Students
• Alumni
• Parents
• Community

What

When there is a conflict, dispute or feeling of unfair treatment
the Ombudsman can:

• explain options and rights under University policy and procedure
• investigate the facts surrounding an incident or situation
• craft solutions for disputes using shuttle diplomacy (communicating between the involved parties)
• mediate conflicts in ongoing relationships if the parties are willing
• refer to appropriate other resources
• redirect official complaints and grievances to the appropriate Ohio University authority

the Ombudsman cannot:

• negotiate for any one party in a dispute
• force a solution on anyone
• receive or address official complaints and grievances about Ohio University

When a person, pair or unit wants to develop or improve their interpersonal and/or organizational environment
the Ombudsman offers:

• training for staff in positive communication, and other critical knowledge
• coaching for leaders about managing operations and personnel with emotional intelligence
• consulting around implementing change with positive and thorough steps
• mediating conflicts between consenting parties

How

Resources of the Office
The current Ombudsman, Merle Graybill, is an accomplished mediator, educator, consultant and coach, having provided many such services for individuals and organizations. She has worked at Ohio University for 15 years in both academic and academic supports units, and has extensive knowledge of personnel and functions across the Athens and Regional campuses. More on Merle Graybill.

The office also has printed resources available to the public.

Authority of the Office
The Ombudsman is empowered to investigate complaints and facilitate or negotiate their resolution. The Ombudsman has the right of access to university records, reports and other documents. The powers of the office allow the Ombudsman to facilitate change and elicit the full cooperation of all members of the university community.

Independence of the Office
To ensure objectivity, the Ombudsman is independent of all existing structures, reporting to the Provost only on administrative and budget matters.

Confidentiality Practices of the Office
The Ombudsman does not keep identifying records nor assume a custodial role for formal documentation. The Ombudsman does not testify at formal proceedings.

With few exceptions (i.e., sexual harassment, eminent danger to self or others, illegal activity), the visitor is in control of every inquiry made in their name by the Office of the Ombudsman. We take no action without asking you first. Your anonymity is maintained to the greatest extent possible.