Frederick Community College Weighs Ombuds Program

In response to a leadership crisis, the community college in Maryland is considering the implementation of an Ombuds program. In early May, FCC's faculty voted overwhelmingly that it had 'no-confidence' in the college's president, Elizabeth Burmaster. Following the vote, the faculty association presented a letter to the board of trustees that detailed years of bullying and retaliation by Burmaster. An investigation by the local newspaper, The Frederick News-Post confirmed the allegations.

A board meeting on June 20 opened with a presentation by the college's legal counsel, "Exploring the Role of an Ombudsman." (Details of the presentation have not been published.) The board then agreed to consider a decision on hiring an Ombuds at its retreat in July. (FCC Board Agenda; Frederick News Post.)