APPENDIX E:

• Jurisdiction: United States

APPENDIX E:

Ombudsman Policy Example—Cornell University

Cornell University Guidelines for the Office of University Ombudsman

There shall be an Ombudsman for the Cornell University community, whose office shall be independent of all existing administrative structures of the University and the office shall have the following functions: To investigate, at the request of members of the community, or upon its own motion, any grievances that may arise against the University or against anyone in the University exercising authority; To bring its findings and recommendations to the attention of those in authority by the most expeditious means possible, and to the community at large to the extent this seems appropriate to the office; To serve as a general information center about all situations and University procedures concerning which grievances may arise—specifically, to advise members of the community about where to turn and what procedures to follow in order to pursue whatever business or complaint they may have; To direct, during emergencies or at the request of the President, such additional, and special information and “rumor clinic” services as the Ombudsman believes appropriate and within the resources and competence of the office. It shall be the special concern of the Ombudsman to: Make decisions affecting members of the community...