The primary goal of the Student Ombudsperson is to provide SIU Carbondale students impartial and informal consultation in assisting with the possible resolution of University related concerns and issues. The Student Ombudsperson is a resource for students in navigating the University while seeking resolution to individual student concerns.
The Student Ombudsperson can
Listen to your complaint.
Clarify and explain University policy.
Assist with unresolved problems.
Assist with referrals to professionals who can address your concern.
Help define resources and options available to you.
Facilitate conversations.
Offer a SAFE place to discuss your concerns.
The Student Ombudsperson serves as a listening post and can help you define your goals as it relates to your concern, explore options for resolving your concern, discuss and provide resources and listen and recommend next steps. The Student Ombudsperson strives for impartiality and objectivity in working with students and the consideration of issues.
What the Ombudsperson does not do
Conduct formal investigations.
Advocate for a particular outcome
Advocate for individuals or take sides.
Give legal advice.
Make or overturn academic/administrative decisions, including grade changes.
Establish, change, or eliminate policies and procedures.
Participate or testify in formal procedures including legal proceedings.
Offer psychological counseling.
Disclose confidential information, except for an imminent risk of harm to the University Community or as required by laws of Title IX.
For More Information
Dr. Love has successfully completed the IOA Foundations of Organizational Ombuds Practice curriculum as developed by The International Ombuds Association. She assists students with a broad range of issues including understanding and following university policies and procedures, learning about, and connecting students to resources, and managing crisis which impede students’ academic success. Dr. Love received her Bachelor of Science degree in Technical Careers, her Master of Science degree in Education and her Doctorate degree in Educational Leadership. She has professional experience in program development, human resources, policy and procedures, fiscal management, curriculum development, operations management, student success, recruitment and retention, and diversity and inclusion. Dr. Love has received the 2021 staff excellence award because of her contributions to furthering the mission of the University and the NASPA 2021 silver excellence award in first-generation student success.
The Student Ombudsperson is a confidential, informal, neutral, resource for problem solving and email is not appropriate for confidential communications. Therefore, we ask that you call 618-453-6882 to discuss your situation or concerns and to schedule an appointment.
SIU Academic Complaint Process
Academic units are responsible for addressing student concerns and complaints related to classes (e.g. syllabi, grades, classroom environment). The first step is to meet with the instructor of the course to see if a resolution can be made. If not, students should contact the department chair or school director to seek advice and resolution. The next level should be the college dean. The Student Conduct Code, the undergraduate catalog, and the graduate catalog provide guidance on policy.
