Frequently Asked Questions

The name “ombudsman” (om budz man) comes from Swedish and literally means “representative.” At the most fundamental level, an ombudsman is one who assists individuals and groups in the resolution of conflicts or concerns. In the context of Texas State University, an ombudsperson is a designated neutral individual who is appointed by the university to facilitate the informal resolution of staff concerns.

For more information about ombuds, visit the Ombuds Association website.

Our office was founded to provide you with a free and confidential resource for dealing with work related issues. We operate off-the-record and are here to assist all Texas State University Staff.

• When simpler attempts have been unsuccessful in resolving a problem.
• When you believe you have been treated unfairly.
• When you do not know which policies, procedures, or regulations might apply in your situation.
• When you are unsure of where to go or what options exist to solve a problem.
• When you believe a policy, procedure, or regulation has been unfairly or wrongly applied.
• When you believe a policy, procedure, or regulation is unfair, illegal, or confusing.
• When you need help negotiating a situation.
• When you need help facilitating communication.
• When you have a question or a complaint about an office, service, or decision.

• Conflict with a co-worker
• Interpersonal difficulties
• Harassment or discrimination
• Untangling complicated situations
• Questions about policy
• Workplace disputes
• Conflicts of interest
• Disciplinary actions
• Appropriate ways to frame and discuss issues
• Unprofessional conduct
• Threats or retaliation

The primary duties of the staff ombudsman are (1) to work with staff and groups at Texas Sate University to explore and assist them in determining options to help resolve conflicts, problematic issues or concerns, and (2) to bring systemic concerns to the attention of the organization for resolution.

• Listen to faculty and staff
• Answer questions
• Help to analyze situations
• Interpret university policies and procedures
• Develop, examine, and reality-test options
• Help untangle bureaucratic red tape
• Suggest appropriate referrals
• Assist in finding a resolution
• Apprise administration of significant trends
• Recommend changes in policies and procedures
• Identify options to resolve problems
• Maintain confidentiality

• Ombudsperson does NOT take sides
• Ombudsperson does NOT make or change rules
• Ombudsperson does NOT participate in formal investigations or play any role in a formal issue resolution process
• Ombudsperson does NOT make policy
• Ombudsperson does NOT receive official “notice” to the university
• Ombudsperson does NOT disclose information provided in confidence
• Ombudsperson does NOT serve as an advocate for any party
• Ombudsperson does NOT maintain official records
• Ombudsperson does NOT give legal advice
• Ombudsperson does NOT breach confidentiality
• Ombudsperson does NOT serve in any other organizational role that would compromise the neutrality of the ombuds role

Confidentiality and neutrality are the cornerstones of the Ombuds Staff office. The Ombudsperson will not share your information without your permission unless there is imminent risk of serious harm or unless disclosure is required by law and/or policy (i.e. title IX).