Welcome
The Office of the University Ombudsman, open to all members of the Cornell community, can help resolve problems or complaints within the university and achieve equitable settlements. Its services are independent of the university administration and are confidential. It can provide information on university policies and practices, help examine alternatives, and find the proper authorities to resolve the situation. As an unbiased "third party," the office can frequently find solutions that have eluded the interested parties.
CORNELL OMBUDSMAN ETHICAL PRINCIPLES*
Independence
The Ombudsman is independent in structure, function, and appearance to the highest degree possible within the organization.
Neutrality and Impartiality
The Ombudsman, as a designated neutral, remains unaligned and impartial. The Ombudsman strives to promote procedural fairness in the content and administration of Cornell's practices, processes, and policies. The Ombudsman does not engage in any situation which could create a conflict of interest.
Confidentiality
The Ombudsman holds all communications with those seeking assistance in strict confidence, and does not disclose confidential communications unless given permission to do so. The only exception to this privilege of confidentiality is where there appears to be imminent risk of serious harm.
Informality
The Ombudsman, as an informal resource, does not participate in any formal adjudicative or administrative procedure related to concerns brought to his/her attention.
*Adapted from International Ombudsman Association (IOA) Code of Ethics