Ask your bud

DISCLAIMER:
The following is fictional but represents an issue commonly addressed in the Ombuds Office. As a confidential resource, Ombuds do not share information about cases unless the visitor seeing us grants permission. The Ombuds Office is not an agent of notice for Auburn University. 

Dear Ombuds,

I need help with a problem and don’t know where to go. If I meet with you, will our conversation be confidential?
 
Dear Student,
 
The Ombuds Office follows strict standards of confidentiality, impartiality, informality and independence. We do not reveal to anyone that you contacted or made an appointment with the office, nor do we reveal anything that was said in our meetings. There are very rare exceptions to confidentiality. For example, if we believe that you or another person is at imminent risk of serious physical harm, we have the discretion to report that to the appropriate authorities. Your ombuds, Kevin and Dona, will explain these rare exceptions at the beginning of your meeting, and you are free to end an ombuds meeting at any time.
 
Our other standards are important as well:
•    Independence: We function independently of university reporting structures and without influence from other university people or offices.
•    Impartiality: We operate without favoring any side and do not represent or advocate for any individual.
•    Informality: We are an off-the-record resource, and consulting with an Auburn University ombuds is completely voluntary. 
We are here to help you work through university conflicts or issues, including conflicts with professors, other students and staff. Whatever the situation, we don’t judge you or have a stake in what you decide. You are always in the driver’s seat!

For more information on the Ombuds Office and its resources, visit our website.