June 21, 2012

Non-conforming Job Posts: Alcorn State University and Saint Leo University

Two southern universities have opened job searches for positions that include Ombuds duties and other, inherently conflicting responsibilities.

 
Alcorn State University, a historically black university in Lorman, Mississippi, is hiring a Presidential Ombudsman. The position will provide high-level assistance to the President by serving as primary liaison between students, faculty, and staff. In addition to operational responsibilities (responding to issues on behalf of the President; coordinating special projects and assignments; reviewing and drafting policies and contracts; etc.) the individual will be responsible for resolving conflicts. Conflict resolution skills or experience are not required. (Higher Ed Jobs.)

Saint Leo University, a private, non-profit, Roman Catholic liberal arts university near Tampa, Florida, is seeking a Special Assistant to the President. "The position supports the president by reducing routine administrative burdens: preparing presidential correspondence, presentations and meeting materials; organizing key meetings serving as an ombudsman and representing the University and president internally and externally." Again, no conflict resolution skills are sought. (Inside Higher Ed.)

It should be noted that several colleges and universities have revised the job duties of their Ombuds significantly to follow IOA best practices (e.g., Cal State San Marcos and Jackson CC).  

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