Ombudsperson

Student, Faculty & Administration Mediation

Santa Monica College
Student Support
Direct Connect
Student Counseling, Guidance, & Resource Community
Ombudsperson

Explore Ombudsperson

An Ombudsperson acts as a listening ear for students at SMC. The ombudsperson helps to resolve conflicts, issues and/or concerns involving faculty, administrators, and other issues; this may include investigating grade disputes and other various complex issues. The Ombuds office is an informal officer where individuals may explore options in confidence.

The ombudsperson does not disclose conversations in the Ombuds office, as conversations are confidential to the extent permitted by law, and the ombudsperson does not serve as an official office of notice to the college.

Learn about resources and access for Ombuds.

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Step 1: Identify the Ombudsperson Support For Students

Attempts to bring harmony between differing points of view regarding faculty and students.
Listens to students' concerns.
Explains campus policies.
Explains the grade appeal process.
Acts as a neutral resource between student and faculty member.
Facilitates communication between and among individuals.
Counsels faculty to minimize potential conflict.
Coach students on how to talk to faculty and staff.
Offers information on grade appeal prevention to students and faculty.
Refers individuals to others as appropriate.
Acts as an informal resource to students, faculty, and staff.
Keeps information confidential except as required by law.

At Santa Monica College, the Ombudsperson does not:

Change grade
Change policies
Take part in formal grievance processes

Step 2: Create Ombudsperson Appointment

Video/Online appointments can be made by selecting an available day and time.

Video Appointment

Note: There is limited availability for appointments made with Ombudsperson.

Step 3: During an Ombudsperson Appointment

You will be asked to explain your concern and briefly indicate the nature of your problem. You will also be asked to consider potential solutions to your problem. It is especially helpful if your concern is specific and one that can be addressed either by the ombudsperson or by someone else. You will be able to discuss your concern(s) with the ombudsperson. The visit is informal and confidential, except as required by law. If you are concerned about a course, come prepared with the syllabus and current gradebook to share with the ombudsperson.

Ombuds offers a variety of ways to connect to student services and support