Ombudsperson

CSC Ombudsperson Standards of Practice

I. Introductions – Career Service Council President

It is the responsibility of the Career Service Council Chair to also serve as the CSC Ombudsperson. The CSC Chair can only delegate or relinquish the responsibilities of being the CSC Ombudsperson with CSC approval.

II. Purpose

To provide a safe, open, comfortable, and informal environment to discuss workplace complaints, concerns, problems, and/or issues confidentially with the objective of facilitating a resolution that is acceptable to all parties.

III. Guidelines

The Ombudsperson works as an independent, impartial, neutral representative advocating for the resolution of issues through informal intervention that promotes productive avenues of communication, administrative efficiency, and consistent treatment, all with the aim of achieving equitable solutions, fair and acceptable outcomes for all involved parties. The Ombudsperson serves staff by providing a collaborative atmosphere in which situations can be discussed, options considered, and a feasible plan developed to resolve the particular concern, issue, and/or problem.

IV. Procedure

As the Ombudsperson, the Santa Fe College staff may seek information, consultation, and assistance. The Ombudsperson must adhere to appropriate college policies and procedures, providing visitors with proper policy guidance regarding other college services which may be applicable such as formal grievance or complaint procedures. For Career Service employees, College Rule 3.24 provides the Grievance Procedure and applicable guidelines. In all procedures and dealings it is essential the Ombudsperson act as an unbiased mediator.

V. Standards of Practice

• Confidentiality
• Transparency
• Accountability
• Neutrality and Impartiality
• Ethics/High Standards
• Integrity
• Reliability
• Equity/Fairness
• Respect
• Accurate and Timely Information
• Collaboration: kept informed
• Unity
• Consistency