10.D Faculty Ombuds Program

The Faculty Ombuds is an impartial information resource who provides informal confidential assistance. Most collegiate units on the Ann Arbor Campus have a faculty ombuds who has either been appointed or elected to that position. A University-wide central faculty ombuds position has been created (Section 10.E, "Central Faculty Ombuds.") The primary function of the ombuds is to protect the interests and rights of faculty and unit administrators from injustices or abuses of discretion; from unnecessary delay and complication in administration of rules and regulations; and from inconsistency, unresponsiveness, and discrimination at all levels of the University’s operations and programs. The position of ombuds exists to help increase the probability that satisfactory and just resolutions can be reached informally and to reduce the likelihood that difficult situations might lead to formal grievances. The ombuds does not replace or supersede other regular University grievance/appeal procedures but supplements and enhances them. The ombuds is not an advocate for individuals but rather encourages practices that are fair, just, and respectful. The ombuds considers the rights and interests of individuals, as well as the institution.

The Faculty Ombuds Program is coordinated by the Faculty Senate Office at 6048 Fleming Administration Building, <sacua@umich.edu>, phone (764-0303).

For more complete information and the names of the unit ombuds, view <www.umich.edu/~facombud>, representative in attendance.

Faculty Handbook: Resolution of Disputes: