The University Ombudsperson is appointed by the President to provide an independent, neutral, informal, and confidential resource for all members of the MSU community. The Ombudsperson assists individuals in navigating concerns and resolving issues by listening, providing information, clarifying policies, identifying options, and facilitating informal resolutions when appropriate.
The Ombudsperson does not advocate for any individual or for the university but promotes fair treatment, process and outcomes. The Office of the University Ombudsperson is not a formal office of notice and does not conduct investigations or participate in formal grievance or disciplinary procedures. Communications with the Ombudsperson are off the record and are held in strict confidence to the extent permitted by law and university policy.
To carry out this role effectively, the Ombudsperson has broad access to university personnel, policies, and data necessary to understand patterns of concern and provide feedback to support systemic improvement. The Office also serves as a resource to students, faculty, administrators, and staff by clarifying university policies and offering guidance on effective conflict management.
Established in 1967 with the adoption of the Student Rights and Responsibilities at Michigan State University, the Office of the University Ombudsperson is one of the longest continuously operating university ombuds offices in the United States. For more information, visit http://ombud.msu.edu/, email ombud@msu.edu, or call 1-517-353-8830.