University Ombuds

Facing a conflict or concern in your work or studies at The New School? The University Ombuds is here to support you.

Let’s find a path forward together.

We are an independent office offering informal, confidential, and impartial assistance—in person or virtually. We help staff, faculty, and students talk through difficult situations, navigate options, and find the right next steps. Whether you’re dealing with an interpersonal issue, a systemic concern, or uncertainty around a policy, we’re here to listen, coach, and guide—not judge or decide. 

We do not keep records or take sides, and we operate independently of other university offices. Our aim is to help restore dignity and clarity by:

• Providing visitors with space to talk freely and off the record
• Exploring strategies for resolving issues
• Clarifying policies or procedures
• Referring visitors to other offices or to formal channels when it is helpful
• Identifying patterns and systemic concerns

The Ombuds Office does not handle matters covered by existing union contracts.

Meet the Ombuds

Saveena Dhall has nearly 30 years of experience working in higher education, in K–12 schools, and at social impact organizations. She has extensive experience in comprehensive student life, academic support, mental wellness programs, conflict resolution, and bias prevention, and has designed and led cultural competency training and educational programs for decades.

Additionally, through her own consulting and coaching practice, Saveena provides expert counsel to private and public university leaders, independent schools, and community organizations on capacity building, equity and belonging, student success, employee engagement, and crisis management.

Previously, as associate dean at the Yale School of Nursing at Yale University, she served as the chief student life officer, overseeing the division of Student Affairs, responsible for academic services, student life and belonging, the registrar, admissions, financial aid, and career planning.

Before serving in that role, Saveena was the dean and director of the Asian American Cultural Center at Yale University.

She completed her graduate work at Harvard University, specializing in Administration, Planning, and Social Policy in Higher Education, and undergraduate studies at Connecticut College.

To make an appointment, email ombuds@newschool.edu or call 646.984.3420.