The search for DU’s next ombuds has commenced. The committee was finalized before winter break, and the position is posted publicly with applications received.
Search committee members include:
- Stuart Evans, Deputy EOC/Senior Investigator
- Michelle Fryer, Business & Compliance Coordinator
- Michael Keables, Chair, Geography
- Dr. Michael LaFarr, Assistant VC of Health & Wellness
- Stevie Lee (Diné), Associate Director – DEI/Native American Initiatives
- Jessica Martella, Human Resources Business Partner
- Drake Muller, Undergraduate student-athlete
- Nancy Nicely, Senior Vice Chancellor and Chief of Staff, Chair
- Nancy Sasaki, Professor, Biological Sciences
- Kate Willink, Vice Provost, Faculty Affairs
- Geanna Weinstein, Executive Assistant, Staff
Position Description:
The ombuds position provides confidential, neutral counsel, wisdom, and direction to faculty, students and staff at DU who are working to resolve on-campus-related problems and conflicts not subject to other dispute resolution processes. These conflicts may be related to a broad range of matters but include identity, disputes between parties and/or professional conflicts or tension.
The ombuds creates a safe space for off-the-record conversations with individuals to identify and evaluate options or potential referrals, including to other offices or relevant conflict mediation. They will also provide policy clarification when appropriate. The ombuds help identify concerns and report trends or patterns to leadership.
This position reports to the senior vice chancellor and chief of staff in the Chancellor’s Office of the University and will have a team of colleagues with whom they routinely work, including those from DEI, EOIX, HRIC and Faculty Affairs, among others. The position will be posted on the HR website, as well as advertised both regionally and nationally early in 2023.