Got Conflict? Contact the UA Ombuds Program

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Got Conflict? Contact the UA Ombuds Program

December 5, 2012

Conflict is inevitable in the workplace. Although most conflicts, especially minor misunderstandings, are resolved by the individuals involved, some conflicts require assistance from an objective, neutral and confidential source. The UA Ombuds are here to help. To talk with an ombuds, call 520-626-5589 or visit the Ombuds website to find contact information for each Ombuds Committee member.

The Ombuds Program provides a confidential, neutral, informal and independent means of problem resolution for staff, appointed personnel, faculty, students and members of the wider community who have a University-related conflict, dispute, question or concern. The Ombuds Committee is comprised of faculty and staff who are nominated by their peers and appointed by the president to serve two-year terms as Ombuds. 

Some examples of concerns brought to an Ombuds include coworker disagreements, perceived unethical behavior, supervisor/employee conflicts, instructor/student misunderstandings, questions about policies and procedures or conflicts between students. The role of an Ombuds is to listen objectively, help identify and reframe the issues, answer questions and clarify policies or help find someone who can, and help determine options to resolve the problem. Communication between an Ombuds and an employee or student is confidential except in matters relating to serious misconduct or a crime, or if there is imminent risk of serious harm. An Ombuds is not empowered to change a decision, but through intervention or a clarification of matters, information may emerge to assist in the resolution of the problem. 

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