 March 1999 |
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Student Ombudsmen Help Address Issues, Find Solutions
Ombudsman programs first appeared on college campuses about 25 years ago, providing students with a new way to resolve the academic and administrative complexities of college life. At George Mason, a program recently has been reintroduced after a lapse of several years to enhance existing services available to students. Dolores Gomez-Moran, associate director for cultural education and academic programs in Minority Student Affairs, and Kenneth Bumgarner, associate vice president for University Services, have been appointed to serve as university ombudsmen. Gomez-Moran, appointed by the Office of the Provost, assists students with academic policy issues. Bumgarner, appointed by the senior vice president, assists students with administrative matters. According to Gomez-Moran and Bumgarner, the role of the ombudsman is to help students make connections to solve problems and ensure that all options are reviewed when seeking solutions. The primary goals of the program are to promote an interest in working together to define roles and identify other alternatives in the problem-solving process, and to increase student satisfaction. The program extends to all three campuses. "It is the overriding responsibility of our institution to provide students with programs and services of the highest quality. The appointment of two ombudsmen will contribute to our success in ongoing efforts to help students meet their needs. Gomez-Moran and Bumgarner bring a great deal of experience in higher education to their assignments, along with strong commitments to the well-being of our students. They will serve us and our students well," says President Alan G. Merten. "We are here to listen, advise, refer, and make sure university policies are well-implemented," explains Gomez- Moran. "Our role is to be a neutral facilitator--not an advocate--and assist students in working through a problem-solving process. Often, this involves reminding them of their responsibility in a situation or helping them understand other options." Bumgarner adds, "Every member of the university community has a responsibility to work with students to resolve problems. When there is a breakdown in the process and students seek our help, we first make sure all avenues have been exhausted and then identify new ones. Sometimes, we engage parents in the discussions, too." Gomez-Moran and Bumgarner stress that they have no authority to interfere with academic decisions or overrule any university policy. "If we notice a recurring problem, we'll take a close look at the issues and resolutions involved and recommend policy changes when appropriate." Gomez-Moran can be reached at x33306 or ombuds@gmu.edu. Bumgarner can be reached at x32828 or kbumgarn@gmu.edu. Both have offices in SUB I. |