What We Do and Do Not Do
What We Do
Our responses are tailored to the individual's situation and informed consent, so we may:
- Listen, which may be all you want
- Offer information about Columbia University policies and procedures
- Discuss your concerns and clarify all the issues
- Help identify and evaluate a range of options for resolving a problem
- Gather information and offer referrals to other resources
- Offer coaching, for example, to help you prepare for a difficult conversation
- Facilitate communication, indirectly or through shuttle diplomacy
- Work for collaborative agreements through mediation
- Track perceived issues and trends
- Make recommendations for institutional improvements
We operate under the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice of the International Ombudsman Association.
The Ombuds Office keeps anonymous aggregate statistics of the types of concerns received in the office and periodically conveys perceived issues and trends to senior administrators.
What We Do Not Do
We will try our best to assist you, but there are some things we do not do:
- Make decisions or findings of fact
- Establish, change, or set aside policies
- Offer legal advice
- Offer psychological counseling
- Participate in grievances or other formal processes
- Serve as an agent of notice for the University
- Serve as an advocate for any individual