How the Ombuds Works

Toward building community, the SCU organizational Ombuds works from the framework of the International Ombuds Association standards of practice and code of ethics to provide services to everyone at SCU. The Ombuds is a confidential, impartial, informal, and independent resource who works to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, fairness, individual empowerment, self-determination, and collaboration.  

Confidentiality

The Ombuds safeguards the confidentiality of all who contact the Ombuds seeking assistance to the fullest extent permitted by law. The Ombuds shares data, trends, and reports such that all confidential information is protected.  

Informality

The Ombuds process is informal and is not connected with any evaluative, disciplinary, legal or administrative actions related to the concerns brought forward to the Ombuds. Instead, the Ombuds uses communication processes to help visitors explore issues and options, navigate challenging communicative challenges, facilitate dialogue and problem solving. 

Impartiality

The Ombuds does not advocate on behalf of anyone, but is an impartial third party to help others engage in effective collaboration such that all parties can feel heard and acknowledged. 

Independence

While part of the SCU community, the Ombuds remains independent. Being situated in the Inclusive Excellence Division, the Ombuds can operate independently of other campus structures.