8.04 Harvard University Events and Information Center

8.03 The Ombuds Office

The Ombuds Office, established in 1991, provides students with a highly confidential, independent and informal forum in which to help them to clarify their concerns, identify their goals, and consider all of their options in managing or resolving their concerns. The Ombudsperson serves students (as well as faculty, staff and trainees) at Harvard Medical School, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, and Harvard School of Public Health. The Ombudsperson does not serve as an advocate for any party to a dispute. However, an Ombudsperson does advocate for fair treatment and processes. Some typical concerns brought to the Ombuds Office include work, learning environment and performance, fear of retaliation, professional misconduct, authorship, sexual harassment, and discrimination. Any issue may be brought to the Ombudsperson.

The Ombuds Office seeks to enhance the ability of all students to deal more effectively with challenging situations on their own. If assistance is needed beyond individual coaching, further information can be gathered on behalf of the student, referrals can be made to those with expertise in a specific area or proper authorities at the school or affiliated institution can be contacted. When appropriate, the Ombudsperson can provide shuttle diplomacy or informal mediation services to help find a satisfactory solution. The student decides which course of action, if any, is taken and that action is tailored to fit each situation.

The Harvard Ombuds Office in Longwood is located at 164 Longwood Avenue on the first floor. For faculty, staff, students, trainees and appointees to Harvard Medical School, the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, the Harvard School of Dental Medicine and their affiliated institutions, please email robin_cheung@hms.harvard.edu or call 617-432-4041.

For more information:

Harvard Ombuds Office, Longwood

164 Longwood Ave., First Floor Boston, MA 02115 Confidential Telephone: 617-432-4041