The Graduate Student Organization’s proposal to introduce an ombudsman, an employee or office that will allow students and faculty to air grievances in a productive manner, is a step in the right direction for a more effective conflict resolution procedure.

GSO’s proposal affirms the group’s dedication to work with Student Association, University Senate and other relevant groups in the SU community to develop a plan for initiating this third party service before presenting the plan before university leadership.

The office of an ombudsman is charged with the responsibility of resolving conflicts with intent of neutrality. It would keep all parties informed of their rights and allow them to seek guidance on ways to effectively resolve interuniversity disputes. As of now, SU is lacking one centralized location that will serve students and faculty alike.

GSO cited THE General Body’s list of Demands and Grievances and the university’s promise to address the need for a more effective conflict resolution procedure as a motivation to generate this proposal.

An ombudsman would be an asset to the SU community, specifically in instances when a student takes his or her concerns to a particular university office and feels that their needs are not being fully addressed. Having an ombudsman to step in and act as an unbiased entity would serve both parties to create a fair solution.

GSO should take heed to continue clear lines of communication with the student body by detailing its final suggestions, making clear the hiring process for this position and reporting where funding and compensation for the position would come from. Maintaining this level of transparency will create trust and encourage students and faculty to use this office in the future.

GSO has resolved to have its plan completed before the end of the 2015 spring semester. Its decision to act quickly to fill this absence is in the university’s best interest, as an ombudsman will benefit SU and is a needed addition to the campus community.