About The Ombuds Office

Where does the term Ombuds come from?

The origin of the word is found in Old Swedish umbuðsmann and the word umbuds man, meaning representative.  Originally assisting citizens in dealing with government offices, the office of an Ombudsman or Ombuds has been adopted today by other organizations, including companies, newspapers and universities.  The Ombuds Office serves as an alternative channel for communication and dispute resolution.  The term “Ombuds” can be used when referring to either the office or the person.

History and Purpose of the Portland State University Ombuds Office

Portland State University established its Ombuds Office in 1994 to serve as an independent resource to students, faculty, and staff who needed assistance in resolving problems and conflicts that arose within the campus community; seeking fair, equitable, and effective solutions to those problems through informal processes, including personal intervention and referrals to appropriate offices.

Visitors often come to the Ombuds Office as a way to resolving their problem without escalating it beyond their intentions. By using the Ombuds Office you can gain insight into a complicated situation and develop a clearer perspective on your issue or concern. You will increase your ability to deal effectively with a problem and identify as well as clarify options available to you.  When providing services, the Ombuds Office adheres to the International Ombudsman Association Code of Ethics, Standards of Practice, and Best Practices.  We are not part of any administrative structure at PSU, and refrain from making policy, administrative decisions, or conducting formal investigations.