The Office of the University Faculty Ombuds
About
The Office of the University Faculty Ombuds is a confidential, impartial, informal, and independent resource for information and assistance to faculty members. It helps in resolving academic and administrative problems and disputes through procedures that may be preferable to a formal grievance or judicial proceedings.
The Office of the University Ombuds receives faculty complaints, concerns, and questions about alleged acts, omissions, improprieties, and broader problems, and works to ensure a fair, equitable, and expeditious resolution. The Ombuds may make an informal inquiry, request relevant documentation, review matters received, offer options for resolution, make referrals, and mediate disputes independently and impartially. In addition, the Ombuds serves as a resource for information, communication, and referrals, and makes recommendations for constructive change when University policies or procedures generate conflicts or concerns. The Office adheres to professional standards of practice established by the International Ombudsman Association.
In addition to the University Faculty Ombuds, each School or College has a Unit Ombuds who is also available as a source of unit-based information concerning University policies and for assistance in the resolution of disputes.
Faculty Ombuds
Mary O’Riordan, University Faculty Ombuds, Professor of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School
Phone: 734-615-4289
Stephanie D. Preston, University Faculty Ombuds, Professor of Psychology, College of Literature, Science, and the Arts
Phone: 734-764-5264
Appointments / Office Hours
Make an Appointment
To request an appointment, send an email to facultyombuds@umich.edu or leave a message on our office phone. We will respond to arrange a consultation as soon as possible.
Do not include confidential or sensitive information in your messages.
Drop-In Office Hours
During Fall and Winter semesters, feel free to drop by our in-person office hours in 4001 Palmer Commons.
Exceptions:
- No drop-in hours during university breaks or spring/summer terms
- Cancellations due to travel/illness will be noted below
Office Hours:
- Stephanie D. Preston, Tuesdays, 1-2pm
- Mary O’Riordan: Tuesdays, 3-4pm