Out of the Blue, University of Louisville to Open Ombuds Office

In the wake of a scandal involving a former dean now under federal investigation and allegations of a broken grievance process, the 22,000-student public university has announced that it is "setting up an interim Ombuds office, similar to those in existence at other major universities." Prior to the announcement, there was no indication that an Ombuds program had even been considered. According to a UofL spokesperson, the independent, neutral and, confidential office will report to the Provost for administrative and budgetary purposes. Full details on the program, including personnel involved, are promised next week. (UofL Update; Inside Higher Ed.)