An Ombuds is a person who serves as an informal and impartial resource to assist faculty
with issues and concerns related to their work experience. The goal of the Faculty
Ombuds Office is to provide a free, confidential space for faculty to bring issues
and concerns, to be heard, and to receive assistance in strategizing and exploring
options. The work of the Ombudsperson is three fold: 1) listening; 2) strategizing,
exploring options, and information gathering; and 3) identifying patterns and instances
of concern, and where appropriate, recommending policy or procedure change.
Typical issues relate to working relationships, policies and job requirements, or
simply needing a sounding board. Examples include conflicts with co-workers, managers
or staff; inappropriate or disrespectful behavior; bullying; perceived inequitable
access to resources; understanding university policies and procedures; awareness of
resources; and referrals. Perhaps one simply needs a safe space to discuss a problem
or get help deciding whether an issue is a problem; maybe one is unsure who to talk
to or whether there are resources, or needs a fresh, impartial listener.
The WCU Faculty Ombuds Office is not a substitute for any other department or office
on campus but rather is an informal place where faculty can go to find out more about
one’s options or air a concern. Faculty may wish to discuss an issue with an Ombuds
first in order to weigh the options that may be available for resolution.
You can contact the WCU Faculty Ombuds Office at 610-436-0731.
Do not leave any confidential information on voicemail. Joan Woolfrey serves as the Faculty Ombudsperson. She can also be reached at the following:
Jwoolfrey@wcupa.edu or Facultyombuds@wcupa.edu
Please be aware that use of email is not a secure or confidential method off communication.
The Ombudsperson holds all communications with those seeking assistance in strict
confidence, and does not disclose confidential communications unless given permission
to do so by the Visitor. The only exceptions to this privilege of confidentiality
is where there appears to be imminent risk of serious harm, sexual misconduct violations
(Title IX or Title VII), or instances of child abuse and neglect.
All West Chester University faculty (non-teaching and teaching) may utilize the services
of the Faculty Ombuds Office.
