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Ombuds Program
What is an Ombudsperson?
An Ombudsperson is someone who informally and impartially assists students, faculty and staff in achieving resolutions to problems. HKS Ombudspersons are chosen by the school community. The services of the Ombudsperson do no replace formal grievance processes at the HKS; rather, they are an additional option.
What kinds of conflict are brought to an Ombudsperson?
An Ombud's office is a confidential place to discuss any problems or conflict. Issues brought to the Ombudsperson typically concern:
- Employement problems
- Discrimination
- Sexual Harassment
- Faculty/Student Misunderstanding
- Supervisor/Employee tensions
- Interpersonal Communication Difficulties
- Unfair treatment
What does an Ombudsperson do?
- The Ombudsperson provides an opportunity for informal discussion of problems outside formal channels.
- The Ombudsperson is a designated neutral and does not advocate for any individual or point of view.
- The Ombudsperson listens, discusses, answers questions, provides information, researches questions and helps the individual develop options for resolving problems or conflicts.
- No information concerning any visit to an Ombudsperson will be disclosed to a third party without the individual's permission, unless such nondisclosure would be inconsistent with the Kennedy School's legal obligations; for example, when there is a potential threat to safety and welfare.
Who can use an Ombudsperson?
You are eligible and welcome if you are affiliated with the Kennedy School as a:
- Student
- Fellow
- Faculty Member
- Staff
How do I contact an Ombudsperson?
You may schedule an appointment with the Ombudsperson of your choice either in person, by telephone or e-mail. Ombuds will not handle third party questions; you must make personal contact with the Ombudsperson. Click here for the list of Ombuds.
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