Restructuring at University of Virginia Divests Ombuds of Mediation Duties

UVA has implemented a new Alternative Dispute Resolution program for classified staff that includes a mediation program. The program allows university employees to mediate complaints before a formal grievance using one of eight different mediators. Previously, the University Ombuds, Brad Holland was responsible for providing mediation services and oversaw internal review. The changes are part of a reconfiguration of HR services prompted by Virginia’s Restructuring Act of 2005, which allowed the state’s public colleges and universities to have additional operating flexibility for financial and administrative matters. (Cavalier Daily.)