Our Mission
Need someone to listen to your concerns about a university-related situation? Unsure about a policy or procedure on main campus or at an affiliate? Need help resolving a conflict?
The Office of the Ombudsperson provides a safe, confidential environment in which students can discuss a University-related problem or concern. We work with students to help identify the root of the problem and create strategies for resolving it. In situations where there is no further recourse, we may investigate or review a decision and may recommend a remedy. However, the recommendations of the Ombudsperson are not binding.
A key aspect of the Office of the Ombudsperson is its impartiality. We are not a student advocacy office, but we're also not an advocate for the University. We are an independent ear when you aren't sure what to do.
The Office is open to all students from all faculties and campuses who have concerns relating to any part of university life. Even if we can’t help you, we can guide you to someone who can. We do not share your personal information without your permission unless the health and safety of you or another person are at risk. The Office of the Ombudsperson abides by the Standards of Practice of the Association of Canadian College and University Ombudspersons (ACCUO).
We also encourage administrators and faculty members to contact us when they have a question about the fairness of a student-related decision or any other student situation.
What we CAN do:
- Listen to concerns
- Identify and explain relevant Western policies and procedures
- Discuss the pros and cons of the next steps
- Provide conflict management strategies
- Give students the tools to advocate for themselves
- Use informal channels to solve problems
- Help faculty and staff who work with students evaluate the fairness of a decision
What we CAN'T do:
- Take sides
- Act as an official office of complaints for the University
- Address concerns unrelated to the University
- Provide legal advice or counseling services
