Code of Ethics

The Student Ombuds adheres to the International Ombudsman Association (IOA) Code of Ethics. This means that the Student Ombuds’ services are:

Independent

The Student Ombuds conducts her work independent from any other office or department at Georgetown. In order to effectively carry out her role, the Student Ombuds works hard to merit the trust of all members of the Georgetown community.

Impartial 

The Student Ombuds is “neutral” and not an advocate for any party in a dispute, regardless of their association with Georgetown. The Student Ombuds considers the interests and concerns of all parties and seeks ways to create mutual understanding and resolve disputes with the purpose of helping to achieve a fair and equitable outcome.

Informal

The Student Ombuds’ services are informal and “off the record.” The Student Ombuds has no formal authority to change any decision or policy at Georgetown, nor does she conduct formal investigations. The Student Ombuds will explain and clarify the formal processes available at Georgetown, but she does not have a role in them. Talking with the Student Ombuds does not put Georgetown “on notice” of any potential legal claim or policy violation. If you wish to let Georgetown know of a potential ethical, policy or legal violation, the Student Ombuds will work with you to find the proper channel for making that complaint.

Confidential

Confidentiality is essential to the work of the Student Ombuds. The Student Ombuds will not identify you or discuss your concerns with anyone without your permission. The only exception to confidentiality is if the Student Ombuds believes that disclosure of information is necessary in order to prevent an imminent harm.