We understand for many, your first visit to the Ombuds Office may be your first interaction with any ombuds. We do our best to make sure the experience is as stress-free as possible.
Ombuds refer to those who use or seek information about our services as “visitors” to affirm the voluntary and informal nature of working with our office. The Office of the University Ombudsperson is dedicated to providing all visitors with a confidential, informal, and impartial experience.
- When visitors first seek assistance with a specific concern, it is best to schedule a 90-minute appointment to allow time to learn about the office’s professional standards and practices.
- The ombuds will then listen to what has prompted you to contact the Ombuds Office.
- You might be asked some clarifying questions about the situation so that the Ombuds can better understand how to support you in identifying, evaluating, and prioritizing what options are available to you.
- Options tend to range from recommendations to contact another campus resource that specializes in addressing the presenting concerns, an informal service the Ombuds Office can provide, such as a mediated conversation, group facilitation, or coaching.
NOTE: Members of the Ombuds Office do not maintain records for George Mason University. To protect visitors’ confidentiality, we encourage scheduling appointments via our Calendly link, by phone, or in person. During the initial meeting, the ombuds will share more with visitors about the office manages confidential information.