Grinnell Close to Hiring First Ombuds

The private, liberal arts college in Iowa is near the end of its search for an Ombuds.  According to the campus newspaper, three finalists are visiting the campus to give presentations to the search committee.  The candidates are: Susan Park, an ADR practitioner for FEMA and former Ombuds at the University of Hawaii and the University of Texas; Annie Tucker, a professional mediator and the executive director for Mediation Services of Eastern Iowa; and Chinyere Ukabiala, an adjunct faculty member at Drake University Law School and pro-bono attorney/mediator.

The search yielded 30 to 40 applications, which was winnowed to eight phone interviews, and then three finalists approved by Grinnell President Raynard Kington. The search committee is having the candidates give sample training sessions conflict resolution.  At the conclusion, attendees are asked to fill out evaluation forms.  The college hopes to fill the position by next semester.  (Scarlet & Black)

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