Ombuds are confidential to the fullest extent permissible by law. We are designated as a confidential resource by the university, and are exempt from mandatory reporting. We do not reveal the names of anyone who contacts our Ombuds unless you give explicit permission to do so. What you share with the Ombuds is off the records, and our Ombuds regularly dispose of any notes or correspondence related to interactions you had with them.

Nothing–unless you provide permission for our Ombuds to take action, typically involving reaching out to other offices to gather information on your behalf. Our office is not an office of notice, and what you share with an Ombuds does not initiate any formal processes.

Ombuds do not keep records containing specific or identifiable information about those we meet with. We regularly dispose of anything containing such information (email correspondence, calendar appointments, notes, etc.). While the Office of Ombuds Services makes every effort to maintain information confidentially to the fullest extent of the law, we discourage disclosing sensitive information through email as e-mails to or from our office may be considered public records subject to disclosure under the Tennessee Public Records Act.

There is no wrong reason to contact the ombuds. We are here to assist you with any type of challenge, dilemma, or question you may have related to your life and work at the University. If, for some reason, an issue is outside of our scope of service, we may offer a referral to other resources.

Ombuds are comfortable with tears and strong emotions, recognizing they are a normal part of the human experience. We strive to create a space where you can feel safe expressing whatever feelings come up for you.

Our stories are rarely simple and organized. Simply sharing your experiences with an ombuds may help you find increased clarity. When there are long-standing issues or concerns, it may be helpful to meet with an ombuds more than once.