Office of the Ombudsman
Tri-C’s Office of the Ombudsman (“Ombuds”) is a safe and neutral space to help students.
The Ombuds may help students:
- Informally resolve a conflict with another student
- Prepare for difficult conversations with any member of the Tri-C community
- Discuss concerns and help clarify issues
- Help identify next steps
- Discuss resources
- Provide equitable measures to support student success
The Ombuds will listen, guide, coach, educate and empower students to help them in their decision-making or to advocate on their behalf. It is ultimately up to the student to choose their own path to a resolution.
The Ombuds is a confidential resource. However, the Ombuds must report if a visitor shares something that suggests an imminent risk of harm to themselves or others. Also, it must report matters mandated by College policy or federal or state law to the appropriate authorities, such as discrimination, harassment or Title IX violations.
Faculty and staff members are also encouraged to reach out to the Ombuds on behalf of students with their concerns and conflicts, in addition to other College resources or to discuss the currently available resources.
The Ombuds Office at Tri-C
Why might you contact the Ombuds?
The Ombuds may be able to help if you find yourself asking any of the following questions:
- Can they do that?
- Who do I talk to?
- Am I misreading the situation?
- What are my options? Is there a College policy or procedure to help address my concern?
- How did I get lost in the bureaucracy?
- With whom can I informally discuss a situation and explore my options and/or alternatives?
Do I need to make an appointment?
Yes. You may complete a referral form or contact Meghan Estes at 216-987-3949 or email meghan.estes@tri-c.edu. You do not need to explain your reason for contacting the Ombuds office — you may simply say you wish to visit with the Ombuds and save the rest of the information for your meeting.
Appointments can also be held over the phone or virtually.