May 18, 2026

University of Kansas Seeks Interim Ombuds Following Retirement Announcement

The public university in Lawrence has opened an internal search for an interim University Ombuds following the announced retirement of Ada Emmett on June 30. The six-month, part-time appointment will provide continuity for the campus Ombuds Office as KU continues implementation of a university-wide administrative restructuring initiative. According to Emmett, the review of the Ombuds Office includes consideration of expanded services for staff at the KU medical center. In addition, she says that restructuring may elevate the reporting line from the Provost to the University Chancellor in line with a new administrative model. 

Only current KU employees are eligible for the interim position, which is not expected to become permanent. Applicants must have an advanced degree or equivalent professional experience in conflict management, organizational development, law, higher education administration, or a related field. Preferred qualifications include prior Ombuds experience. The appointment will include an interim salary increase in addition to the employee’s current salary. Applications are due May 20, 2026, and the anticipated start date is July 1, 2026. (KU Employment.)

1 comment:

  1. Changing the reporting relationship from the provost to the chancellor would be a big plus.

    ReplyDelete