What We Do and What We Do Not Do
What We Do
Our responses are tailored to the individuals situation and informed consent, so we may:
Listen to your concerns and questions
Offer information about Stony Brook University policies and procedures
Discuss your concerns and clarify all the issues
Help identify and evaluate a range of options for resolving a problem
Gather information and offer referrals to other resources
Offer coaching, for example, to help you prepare for a difficult conversation
Facilitate communication, indirectly or through shuttle diplomacy
Work for collaborative agreements through informal mediation
Track perceived issues and trends
Make recommendations for institutional improvements
What We Do Not Do
Maintain records that identify you after weve completed our work together
Represent individuals in formal procedures
Conduct or participate in formal investigations or processes
Provide psychological counseling
Offer legal advice
Testify or gather evidence for formal administrative processes
Advocate for individuals or departments
Establish, change, or set aside policies
Serve as an office of record
Issues You Can Discuss with the Ombudsperson
Academic issues
Interpersonal difficulties
Harassment or discrimination
Untangling a complicated situation
Violations of University policy or conduct codes
Workplace disputes
Ethical dilemmas
Conflicts of interest
Disciplinary matters
Research misconduct
Incivility or rudeness
Health and safety concerns
Academic freedom
Protecting your reputation
Threats or retaliation
Policy and procedural concerns
Housing concerns