Welcome

The Office of the Ombudsperson offers free conflict management assistance to all students, staff, and faculty at Georgia State University. The Office follows the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice set forth by the International Ombudsman Association:

Independence

• Independent from other Georgia State University Offices
• Reports to the Office of the Provost for administrative and budgetary purposes
• Does not represent the University

Neutrality and Impartiality

• Strives for impartiality, fairness, and objectivity in treatment of people and issues
• Does not advocate for any party or the University
• Promotes fairness and equity

Confidentiality

• To the extent allowed by law, holds all communication with visitors in strict confidence (exceptions include situations involving imminent threat of serious harm and Title IX violations)
• Does not keep permanent records, except statistical information for analyzing and reporting trends
• Not an office of notice to the University

Informality

• Engages in informal, off-the-record activities to help visitors address their situations
• Does not participate in formal processes
• Does not make judgments or decisions

We Do: 

• Listen to concerns without judgment
• Help people strategize about their situations
• Assist in analyzing and developing options
• Provide coaching in managing conflict
• Provide information on procedures and policies
• Provide mediation and facilitation services
• Gather information to provide to visitors
• Provide upward feedback on general trends

We Do Not:

• Accept notice on behalf of the University
• Receive official reports or complaints
• Serve as an advocate for any person
• Offer legal advice
• Offer psychological counseling
• Make decisions or findings of fact
• Participate in formal processes
• Establish or enforce policies

The Office of the Ombudsperson is available to all members of the GSU community as a purely voluntary and “alternate” channel for confidential communication. It is not appropriate for anyone to seek to compel the Ombuds or their staff to disclose confidential communications. People who use the services of the Office of the Ombudsperson are considered to have agreed to abide by these principles and not to seek to compel the Ombudspersons or their staff to testify with respect to confidential communications.