Western Kentucky University Names First Permanent Ombuds

WKU President Gary Ransdell has appointed Karl Laves as the university's the new faculty and staff Ombuds. "We attempted to pick someone who had the reputation, style and expertise to be an effective ombudsperson for both faculty and staff," said Provost Barbara Burch. "And Dr. Laves was both." Laves said he was surprised to be tapped for the position and said his main job is still assistant director for WKU's Counseling and Testing Center. "Because it's a new position on campus, it's being defined as we do it," Laves said. "I'm very excited and happy to take it on." In addition to his counseling duties, Laves is also a member of the faculty in the Psychology Department. He earned his Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Missouri-Columbia. Laves takes over for William M. Greer, who served as interim Ombuds for one semester. (WKU Herald.) Related post: WKU to Create Ombuds Office.