Ethical Principles

Independence

The Ombuds Office operates independently in structure, function, and appearance to the highest degree possible within the organization. The Ombuds Officer is not part of line management, does not make management decisions, and cannot compel anyone to take a particular course of action. The office has access to university information and individuals as permitted by law.

Confidentiality

The Ombuds Office is a safe, confidential resource. Identities and concerns shared with the office are not disclosed without permission, except as required by law, including Chapter 119, Florida Statutes, or in cases of imminent risk of serious harm.

The Ombuds Office does not keep records and cannot serve as an Office of Record or Notice. Any brief personal notes are temporary and securely destroyed once a concern is addressed. If additional parties need to be involved, this will always be discussed with you in advance and will not proceed without your consent.

Please note that email is not appropriate for confidential communication.

Informality

The Ombuds Office is an informal resource that supports all members of the 太阳城娱乐 community. It does not serve as a place to give formal notice of wrongdoing but can refer visitors to the appropriate offices.

The Ombuds Office encourages resolving concerns at the lowest effective level before they escalate. If a matter requires a formal grievance or appeal, the Ombuds Office will explain available options, but its involvement ends once a formal process begins.

Impartiality

The Ombuds Office does not take sides, but considers the rights and interests of all parties involved in searching for a fair resolution to the problem.

The Ombuds Office is a designated neutral. The University Ombuds does not advocate for the individual who contacts or visits the office, nor for the institution, and has no stake in the outcome. The University Ombuds role is to consider all sides of an issue, respect the rights and interests of all parties, and promote fairness.