Agent at the Senate Review Board Academic

The agent role is distinct from the Ombudsperson role. In the current case year, the Ombudsperson acted as agent in two cases. One was an appeal of a finding that the student had committed a scholastic offence. That appeal was denied. The other involved a waiver of progression requirements. That appeal was granted.

Coordinating Committee

The Coordinating Committee for the Office of the Ombudsperson is an important link between the Ombudsperson and the community. In the past year, it met twice and also communicated by email. It discussed the Office's outreach efforts; the draft annual report; performance appraisal; the budget for the office; and a proposal for an Ombuddy program at the Affiliated Colleges, among other issues. Anita Pouliot (Assistant Ombudsperson) and Frances Bauer (Ombudsperson) are non-voting members of the Coordinating Committee. Voting members were Candice Carson, Sera Vavala, Andrea Vovk, Nelson Heapy, Marty Westmacott and Debra Dawson. Our sincere thanks to each for his or her contribution and fine efforts.

Professional Development

Ombudspersons in universities and colleges are sometimes in one person offices. Anita and I are fortunate to be part of a two-person office. Nevertheless, it is important to be able to meet with colleagues to discuss our work and learn from each other. We have both been active over the years in a number of different ombudsman organizations. This year we attended both the midyear and annual meetings of the Association of Canadian College and University Ombudspersons (ACCUO). Frances prepared a session on cases with a colleague from Wilfrid Laurier. Anita became ACCUO's Treasurer, and has continued to maintain the ACCUO website.