Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Formal offices can investigate situations, leverage decisions and enforce and set policies. Also, formal offices offer informal conversations and mediation, but the discussions may not be considered confidential.

While the ombuds has no authority to take formal action in response to complaints, the ombuds may provide the visitor with relevant information or help to identify formal options available to them to move toward resolution.

Here are just a few examples:

• Concern with a specific University procedure or need for clarity on a policy.
• Challenges in collaborating or communicating with a faculty member, supervisor or group.
• Facing a potential ethical concern or conflict of values.
• Looking for support in preparing for a tough or sensitive conversation.
• Exploring formal options available for addressing concerns.
• Connecting with the right campus offices or support services.
• Managing a disagreement or interpersonal issue with a peer or colleague.

• A confidential space for students and postdoctoral fellows to talk through challenges impacting their academic or campus experience—such as concerns about fairness, ethical questions, or difficulties with peers or faculty.
• Help understanding how University policies and procedures may relate to your situation.
• Personalized support that may include active listening, communication strategies, reframing your concerns, exploring possible next steps together, or connecting you with other helpful campus resources.
• Interactive workshops and presentations for student groups or programs, focusing on practical tools for navigating conflict and improving communication.

The Health Sciences ombuds may take a variety of steps to thoughtfully address the concerns shared with the office. Some include:

• Listen actively and without judgment to student and postdoc concerns.
• Explain or clarify University policies and procedures.
• Help students and postdocs explore options for addressing concerns.
• Refer students and postdocs to appropriate University resources.
• Coach on effective communication strategies and conflict de-escalation.
• Support goal-setting and problem-solving.
• Facilitate conversations or conflict resolution when appropriate
• Provide education on managing interpersonal conflict and navigating systems.

The Health Sciences ombuds do not share any information from confidential conversations unless there is an “imminent risk of harm” or if compelled by law (i.e. Title IX incidents or disclosure of other crimes). The ombuds do not keep any permanent records or identifiable information.

The director of ombuds services, who communicates directly with the Senior Vice Chancellor’s Office, provides confidential, general reports to University leadership only to identify trends and advocate for systemic change in needed areas. No confidential or identifiable information is shared.

We will meet with you in person, virtually or over the phone — whichever you prefer. We explain our role, what to expect and how we operate. We give you the opportunity to describe your concern. We listen, ask questions, and help you reflect on the issue.

Together, we consider strategies, resources and possible next steps. We help you find the appropriate resources and support to achieve the outcome that you hope for.

Next Steps
If ongoing support is helpful or resources are needed, with your permission, we may:

• Clarify relevant policies and procedures.
• Speak with others to better understand the issue.
• Facilitate a conversation or informal mediation.
• Follow up with you.

If you need more support or something new has come up, you can meet with our office as many times as you would like. We are here whenever you need us.

Email ombuds@hs.pitt.edu or call +1-412-624-1340 or fill out our confidential meeting request form to request a confidential appointment. Please do not include any confidential information in your email. Please reserve this information for your consultation.