Office of the Ombudsman

We are Here to Help

At Saginaw Valley State University (SVSU), the ombudsman helps students resolve concerns, problems, or conflicts with regards to University policies, procedures, and decisions. The ombudsman provides for a confidential and neutral place for students to come to express their concerns. Students work with the ombudsman to identify steps that may be taken to achieve a timely and fair resolution to a problem.

The ombudsman may collaborate with others in the University community regarding student concerns. The ombudsman is interested in both issue resolution and prevention in resolving both academic and non-academic concerns.

The Ombudsman will:

• Listen and discuss questions and concerns
• Help in identifying the next steps in solving a problem.
• Act as a resource on University policies and procedures
• Make referrals to other campus and community resources

You should contact the Ombudsman when you:

• Have a problem at SVSU and don’t know how to proceed
• Feel your concerns are not being listened to
• Find yourself entangled in bureaucratic red tape
• Need information about SVSU policies or procedures
• Need someone to help resolve or mediate a dispute
• Feel you have been treated unfairly
• Think the University has made an error
• Want information about grievance procedures and rights at SVSU
• Have suggestions about how to improve the University

How to Contact the University Ombudsman:

Students who would like to make contact with the University Ombudsman are welcome to do so by calling, writing or visiting the office at:

Richard Thompson, University Ombudsman

121 Wickes Hall
7400 Bay Road
University Center, MI 48710
Phone: (989) 964-4166

Office hours: Scheduled by appointments, but walk-in visits are usually possible. Evening hours are also an option.

Remember, when you have a particular concern or difficulty, visit the Ombudsman Office. We will listen to your concerns.