Call for Ombuds Applications

The President’s Office is calling for applications from faculty members for the position of Ombuds. Currently, Christina DeVries (staff member, Advancement) and Dan Dougherty (faculty member, Computer Science) are serving as Ombuds for the University. Dan will be leaving the Ombuds role at the end of this academic year and we would like to consider a faculty member to replace him. 

Per the Ombuds Office webpage, the WPI Ombuds Office provides confidential, impartial, independent, and informal problem-solving assistance to students, faculty, and staff. It helps with complaints involving interpersonal, academic, and administrative misunderstandings or disputes and works to help individuals resolve their concerns fairly.

WPI's ombuds are members of the International Ombuds Association and adhere to the four fundamental ethical principles of that organization, listed below. The Ombuds positions are not compensated, but training and membership in the national association are provided by the University.

Applications are invited to be submitted by April 25, 2022, using the form at this link. The current Ombuds and Talent & Inclusion will review applicants and make a recommendation to the President. 

Thank you for considering serving the community in this vital capacity.

Confidentiality

The WPI Ombuds Office safeguards the identity of individuals and their issues and does not disclose confidential communications without permission from the individual visiting the Ombuds Office.

The Ombuds cannot guarantee confidentiality if there appears to be imminent risk of serious harm.

Independence

The WPI Ombuds Office is independent in structure and function within the organization. The office reports to the President of WPI only for administrative and budgetary purposes.

Informality

The Ombuds functions on an informal basis by listening, providing, and receiving information, reframing issues, and developing options.   The Ombuds does not maintain permanent records or take an active role in any formal institutional investigative or adjudicative procedures.

Speaking with the WPI Ombuds Office about a concern does NOT constitute legal notice to WPI about a problem. Anyone wishing to put the Institution on notice may contact an administrator or invoke formal grievance procedures.

Impartiality

The WPI Ombuds Office is neutral, impartial, unaligned, and objective.  The Ombuds acts in consideration of and with respect for the legitimate interests and concerns of all affected parties.