The Ombuds Blog: University of Wisconsin Anti-Bullying Policy Invokes Ombuds

December 09, 2014

University of Wisconsin Anti-Bullying Policy Invokes Ombuds

Last month, the Faculty Senate at the University of Wisconsin at Madison approved an anti-bullying policy that will be “implemented” either informally, through the intervention of an Ombuds or vice provost with no written record of complaint.

The policy describes “hostile and/or intimidating behavior” as “[u]nwelcome behavior pervasive or severe enough that a reasonable person would find it hostile and/or intimidating and that does not further the university’s academic or operational interests.” The policy does not further describe the role of the University Ombuds. (UW-Madison Faculty Legislation; Inside Higher Ed.)

Related posts: Journal of IOA Highlights Bullying Issues; University of Minnesota Ombuds Reports Success in Work Against Academic Incivility; UC Santa Barbara Ombuds to Host Colloquium on Bullying in Higher Ed; New Bullying Policy at Oregon State Endorses Ombuds; University of Denver to Host Second Colloquium on Bullying in Higher Ed.

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Organizational Ombuds

Organizational Ombuds serve as a confidential, independent, neutral and informal dispute resolution resource for a specific entity. They are accessible to a defined population and can advocate for fairness. These unique characteristics distinguish Organizational Ombuds from Classical Ombuds, mediators, arbitrators, and other alternative dispute resolution professionals. The term "Ombuds" is shorthand for "Ombudsman," "Ombudsperson" and "Ombuds Officer," which also are used widely.

Some other variants include:

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December 09, 2014

University of Wisconsin Anti-Bullying Policy Invokes Ombuds

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