St. Mary’s University Ombuds Office
(210) 431-2095 | ssilva17@stmary.edu
CONFIDENTIAL | IMPARTIAL | INDEPENDENT | INFORMAL
The Ombuds Office is a confidential resource available to Staff and Faculty to address any workplace concerns. A discussion with the Ombuds can help a visitor voice concerns, clarify goals and consider options in making decisions and resolving any situation.
For the purposes of the Ombuds Office, staff and faculty are referred to as “visitors”. Students with workplace concerns can visit with the Ombuds. However, a referral to the Dean of Students’ Office will be offered.
The St. Mary’s Ombuds Office supports the Marianist Catholic mission of engaging in the family spirit, social justice and peace. We encourage mutual understanding and resolution through respectful dialogue and engagement.
Principles of Practice
Confidentiality
Confidentiality is essential to the Ombuds function and helps create a safe place in which visitors can talk through their concerns. Information shared by any visitor will not be disclosed without the visitor’s permission, except when the Ombuds determines there may be an imminent risk of serious harm or when required by law. The Ombuds Office does not maintain records that identify visitors to the office.
Impartiality
The Ombuds does not serve as an advocate for any party to a dispute. However, the Ombuds does advocate for productive communication and fair processes and their implementation.
Independence
Except for administrative and budgetary purposes, the Ombuds Office is independent in structure and appearance and functions outside of the university’s existing departmental structure.
Informality
The Ombuds Office does not record or act upon any notice of complaint, and an Ombuds does not conduct formal investigations or participate in formal actions. If a visitor wishes to make a formal complaint, the Ombuds will inform the visitor about the process.
FAQs
All St. Mary’s Staff and Faculty.
Student situations can be assessed through the Ombuds, however, the expectation is that the students will visit the Dean of Students with any concerns.
Who visits the Ombuds Office?
The combined elements of confidentiality, impartiality, independence and informality make the Ombuds Office a unique resource within the University. Visitors to the Ombuds Office are able to informally discuss any issue affecting them in the workplace.
Why visit the Ombuds Office?
The fundamental role of the Ombuds is to listen without judgment and to help visitors identify their issues and goals. They also help visitors to consider the range of options available to them and support visitors in making their own decisions about their next steps. Additionally, an Ombuds may bring systemic issues and concerns to leadership for their consideration.
What is the Ombuds role?
An Ombuds is not an advisor or advocate. They are impartial and don’t pass judgment on what is shared with them. If a visitor is seeking an advocate, the Ombuds can help them think through who might serve in this capacity. Additionally, an Ombuds does not investigate complaints or participate in investigations carried out by others.
What are the limits to the Ombuds role and services?
Those seeking to make an appointment with an Ombuds may call or email ssilva17@stmarytx.edu. Appointments are available via Zoom, Teams phone or in person.
If you choose to email the Ombuds, be mindful that email should not be considered confidential. Please include only your contact information and availability to speak; do not include sensitive or confidential information.