Conflict Resolution

Student Ombuds

The Student Ombuds office is a place New School students can go to 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.

The ombuds facilitates communication among parties and provides opportunity for informal dispute resolution. The ombuds does not arbitrate, adjudicate, or participate in any internal or external formal process.

Impartiality

To ensure objectivity, the ombuds operates independently of other administrative offices and employees. 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.

Confidentiality

The student ombuds office is confidential. The ombuds will not share any information you give without your express permission. An exception to maintaining any such confidentiality would be if the ombuds had a reasonable concern about possible violence or other immediate danger of harm. The ombuds office will not keep records about you or your concerns.

Telling the ombuds about a dispute or complaint is not to inform or notify any university official. One of the duties of the ombuds is to advise you of the best way to seek formal resolution of a problem. The ombuds does not represent the university and therefore cannot receive formal complaints. 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. However, the ombuds 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 wish.