Students

Consultation with the ombuds is voluntary and is not a required step in any grievance or other formal process. Students may schedule a visit with the ombuds at any time. No referral is necessary, and visits are confidential.

Students Are Encouraged to Visit the Ombuds To:

• Discuss problems or complaints related to life at LMU with an independent and confidential resource.
• Gain support in determining what to do or whom else to speak to within the LMU community.
• Acquire additional information about LMU policies and processes.
• Revisit a problem or complaint that has not been resolved.

The Ombuds Does:

• Provide a confidential place for students to express concerns.
• Listen impartially.
• Identify and reframe issues.
• Review and explain policies and procedures.
• Help brainstorm a range of responsible options to address problems.
• Facilitate discussion to identify best options.
• Explore a range of responsible options, including formal and informal processes.
• Point students towards available services and resources.
• With permission and at the ombuds' discretion, engages in informal third-party intervention (IOA, 2008).

The Ombuds Does Not:

• Breach confidentiality unless:
  • Specifically requested by the initiating student.
  • There is imminent danger of harm to self or others.
  • Suspicion of child abuse or abuse of vulnerable adults
• Act as an advocate or representative for a particular point of view or for any party
• Have any formal decision-making capability.
• Determine "guilt" or "innocence."
• Provide psychological services.
• Make decisions, create or change policy, nor mandate actions.
• Testify in any formal process inside LMU and resists testifying in any formal process outside the university.
• Keep records containing identifying information on behalf of LMU.
• Provide legal advice or services such as:
  • Binding and non-binding arbitration
  • Adjudication or mediation
  • Remedies or sanctions
  • Formal investigations
• Record formal complaints on behalf of LMU.
• Maintain formal records for LMU. Records are kept only for purposes of reporting trends in concerns and complaints.