The Office of Student Ombuds Services is a place where New School students can go for assistance in resolving conflicts, disputes or complaints on an informal basis. In order to afford students the greatest freedom in using the services that the ombuds office provides, this office is independent, neutral, and confidential.

Informal
The student ombuds office is informal. The ombuds facilitates communication when conflict arises and provides the opportunity for informal dispute resolution. The ombuds does not arbitrate, adjudicate, or participate in any internal or external formal process.

Independent
The student ombuds office is independent. To ensure objectivity, the office operates independently of administrative employees.

Neutral
The student ombuds office is neutral. The ombuds will not take sides in any conflict, dispute, or issue, but considers the interests and concerns of all parties involved with the aim of achieving a fair and equitable outcome.

Confidential
The student ombuds office is confidential. To the extent practicable, the ombuds will not share any information you give with anyone outside the student ombuds office without your permission. An exception to maintaining any such confidentiality would be if the ombuds had a reasonable concern about possible violence or physical harm. In addition, the student ombuds office will not keep any records about you or the information you share.

By telling the ombudsperson about your conflict, dispute, or complaint you have not informed or notified any university official of your conflict, dispute, or complaint and therefore the university cannot and will not take any action to remedy the situation. In order for the university to take action to remedy your conflict, dispute, or complaint, you must share it with someone who represents the university. The ombuds does not represent the university and therefore cannot receive formal complaints. However, the ombudsperson can help you find the appropriate person to speak to in order to request that the university take some action, if that is what you want.