Ombuds Information Session

Join the Ombuds Team to learn about their role on campus and how they support faculty and staff.

The SUNY and New York State policies governing discrimination, harassment, and workplace conduct are complex and can be difficult for employees to navigate. As a result, faculty and staff may feel frustrated or unsure how to address concerns related to incivility, interpersonal conflict, or potential policy violations. While workplace conflict may be unavoidable, it is not insurmountable.

To provide additional support, the President of Farmingdale State College seeks to appoint an Ombuds Team to serve as an informal, impartial resource for faculty and staff. The Ombuds Team will not replace existing formal processes, but will offer a preliminary, supportive option to help de-escalate concerns and explore resolution.

The FSC Ombuds Team is authorized to receive concerns, complaints, or inquiries; listen impartially; explore options; and facilitate informal resolutions when appropriate. The goal is to help all parties feel heard, respected, and supported, while working toward mutually agreeable outcomes.

The Ombuds Team will provide compassionate guidance and, when necessary, direct employees to appropriate formal resolution processes.

The Ombuds Team may:

• Assist with workplace incivility or interpersonal challenges
• Listen to concerns regarding potential policy violations
• Serve as an intermediary when formal processes are not required
• Help employees understand their rights and options
• Guide employees toward formal resolution processes when needed

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