Confidential: Confidentiality is the cornerstone of the standards of practice of the Office of the University Ombudsman. The Ombudsman takes all reasonable steps to safeguard confidentiality. The Ombudsman does not reveal the identity of any individual contacting the Ombudsman Office or any information provided in confidence that could lead to the identification of any individual contacting the Ombudsman Office, without that individual’s express permission, given in the course of informal discussions with the Ombudsman, and even then at the sole discretion of the Ombudsman. The only exception to this privilege of confidentiality is where the Ombudsman determines there appears to be an imminent risk of serious harm, and there is no other reasonable option.

Neutral: Along with confidentiality, neutrality is one of the cornerstones of the ombuds process. The University Ombudsman serves as a designated neutral, remaining unaligned and impartial while striving for fairness, objectivity, impartiality, and even-handedness in the treatment of faculty and in the consideration of faculty issues. The University Ombudsman has a responsibility to consider the legitimate concerns and interests of all individuals affected by the matter under consideration.

Informal: The University Ombudsman functions on an informal basis by such means as: listening, providing and receiving information, identifying and reframing issues, developing a range of possible options and, with permission and at the discretion of the Ombuds, engage in informal third party intervention. When possible, the Ombudsman helps faculty members develop new ways to solve problems themselves. Faculty members can confidentially voice their concerns to the University Ombudsman, evaluate their situation, develop a range of responsible options, and then plan their course of action. The University Ombudsman supplements but does not replace formal grievance processes.

Independent: The University Ombudsman acts independently and exercises sole discretion over when, whether, and how to act on a faculty member’s behalf.

Information for students and staff:
 

Student Ombudsperson: Louise Barham Office of the Vice President of Student Affairs University of South Carolina Osborne Administration Building 110 Columbia SC 29208 voice 803-777-4172 fax 803-777-9354

Staff Employee Relations Manager: Ken Titus Human Resources Employee Relations Office Suite 208 Thornwell Administrative Annex Columbia, SC 29208 voice 803-777-7550 fax 803-777-7552 titusk@gwm.sc.edu