Office of the Ombudsperson

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The Office of the University Ombudsperson provides informal, independent, impartial and confidential* conflict management services to all employees of the university.

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About the Office

Our office provides a safe, off-the-record space to share concerns on a broad range of workplace issues. The University Ombudsperson will help you explore options for resolving individual and group issues and can provide informal and confidential assistance with difficult and sensitive conversations.

The University Ombudsperson embraces diversity and inclusion through respectful dialogue and collaborative problem solving, provides a safe space to listen to the unique concerns of each visitor, and focuses on supporting the whole person when exploring options for conflict management and well-being.  

Staff and faculty seeking assistance from the office will be treated with dignity and respect and can expect individualized attention to their needs and concerns. All employees are welcome.

Ombudsperson services support Seattle University’s mission to provide an inclusive working environment that values diversity, promotes a humane and ethical working and learning climate, and supports the whole person when exploring options for resolution.

*Confidentiality cannot be promised in matters relating to threats to public safety; child abuse or neglect; vulnerable adults; if there is imminent risk of serious harm; or if compelled by law.

The University Ombudsperson is a designated neutral, impartial listener and facilitator whose major function is to provide confidential and informal guidance and support to Seattle University’s employees. The Ombudsperson will:

  • Listen fully and impartially
  • Value diverse perspectives
  • Help visitors explore options for resolution to address individual and group issues
  • Help navigate university systems and connect employees to resources
  • Provide informal facilitation or mediation when appropriate
  • Remain impartial to all parties involved in a conflict

The University Ombudsperson operates according to the International Ombuds Association principles, standards of practice, and code of ethics.

The office is a confidential, informal, impartial and independent resource for employees to share their concerns and explore options for assistance. The office does not maintain personally identifying records and will not share a visitor’s identity without their permission.

The University Ombudsperson functions independently and impartially when assisting employees. The University Ombudsperson does not advocate for any individual or group perspective. Rather, they promote the healthy, civil and equitable resolution and management of conflicts and issues. The office supplements and compliments—but does not replace— existing formal grievance mechanisms at the university. The Ombudsperson does not participate in formal procedures.\

Due to the confidential and informal nature of the Office of the University Ombudsperson, communication with this office does not constitute notice to Seattle University.

Communications by email to the University Ombudsperson should be limited to requests for an appointment or general information sharing that is unrelated to confidential visits.

Contact the Ombudsperson

Due to the confidential nature of the office, please limit the information in email to your request for an appointment; your availability; and preference for meeting in person or via Zoom.

Sue Theiss, M.A.

University Ombudsperson

Sue Theiss