Ombudsman

When you don't know where to turn for answers, the ombudsman/student advocate is here to help.

Contact: Indy-ombudsman@ivytech.edu

North Meridian Campus, North Meridian Center, Room 430

317-921-4545

Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Lawrence Campus

317-916-7524

First and third Tuesday of every month, Room F139, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

What is an ombudsman/student advocate?

"Ombudsman" is a Swedish word meaning "representative." At Ivy Tech Community College-Central Indiana, the ombudsman advocate is a neutral party who works with students to resolve issues and concerns.

What does the ombudsman/student advocate do?

The ombudsman/student advocate . . .

acts as a liaison between the student and faculty or staff
explains and clarifies College policies and helps the students navigate the system
provides a confidential, respectful and safe setting for the student to discuss issues an concerns related to the classroom or College procedures
listens to the student and assists the student in evaluating an assessing options for solving the issue
provides information and resources available to the student or can make referrals for the student

When should a student go to the ombudsman/student advocate?

When you . . .

don't know where to start
feel you are getting the "runaround"
have not been able to resolve your issue no matter what you try
need advice on College policies and procedures

The ombudsman/student advocate does not . . .

participate in the formal grievance process
determine "guilt " or "innocence" of those accused of wrongdoing
assign sanctions to individuals
guarantee that everything will work out to the student's satisfaction
have any decision-making authority and cannot tell any staff member, administrator, or faculty member what to do