Ombuds

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The Office of the Ombud serves the UW community by providing high quality, client-focused services for preventing, managing, navigating, and resolving conflict at UW. They act as thought-partners with clients to assist them while navigating issues they are experiencing at UW. Through active participation in the problem-solving process, clients develop the ability to prevent, manage, and resolve future conflicts. 

Types of Complaints / Topics Addressed

Can make referral for another person or will meet with people or small groups to actively find solutions to an array of problems like bias, personal concerns, work concerns, disability, etc. Examples in FAQ section: https://www.washington.edu/ombud/faqs/ 

Disclaimers

Retaliation protection:
University of Washington policy prohibits retaliation against people who bring a complaint or participate in the complaint process. An employee who engages in retaliatory conduct is subject to appropriate corrective action, including dismissal. 

Exception to confidentiality:
Any information shared in emails, tools, or reports may be subject to public records requests or released under federal and state law. 

Process

What information you need to submit, what happens after

The Office of the Ombud is available to the University community by Zoom, phone, or in-person appointments. They offer a wide range of client appointments from 1:1 sessions to group mediations and facilitated conversations. To learn more about appointment offerings visit the Schedule an appointment page. 

When does reporter hear back?

Varies

Point of Contact Info

Email: ombuds@uw.edu  

Phone: 206.543.6028 

Location: 339 Husky Union Building (HUB)  

Other Considerations

This office is really helpful for all levels of staff, students, and faculty. Can be utilized by supervisors if they are presented with an issue that requires active problem solving. Best for conflict resolution