Principles

The Office of the Ombuds for Faculty and Staff (“Ombuds Office”) operates in accordance with the International Ombuds Association Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics, as follows:

Confidentiality

Confidentiality is the bedrock of the work of the Ombuds and helps create safety for visitors to discuss concerns in depth. Communications with the Ombuds Office are confidential and off the record. Information shared by any visitor will not be disclosed without the visitor’s permission except when the Ombuds determines there may be an imminent threat of serious harm to the visitor or others. The Ombuds Office does not retain notes or maintain identifying records.

Impartiality

The Ombuds Office is a neutral and impartial resource for Northeastern employees. The Ombuds does not take sides in a dispute or advocate for any individual or office. The mission of the Ombuds Office is to advocate for fair and equitable processes and practices.

Informality

The Ombuds Office is an informal resource and not part of any formal process at the university. Communications with the Ombuds are off the record and do not put the university on notice about any issue or concern.

Independence

The Ombuds Office operates independently of other university offices and functions.