What does an Ombuds do?

The University Ombuds Service does:

• Listen to concerns and clarify issues
• Explore possible options for the desired outcome
• Explain Humboldt policies and procedures
• Facilitate communication between people
• Provide mediation
• Make referrals
• Maintain confidentiality , revealing a client’s identity only with the person’s permission (except to the extent required by law, as in the case of risk of harm to self or others)

The University Ombuds Service does not:

• Tell visitors what they should do
• Take sides in a dispute
• Determine guilt or innocence
• Give legal advice
• Participate in any formal grievance process
• Represent or advocate for any individual or group