Ombuds
Office of the Ombuds
Confidential. Impartial. Independent. Here to Help.
Navigating Challenges? We’re Here for You. College life can be exciting—but sometimes, confusing or frustrating issues come up that are hard to solve on your own. Maybe a policy feels unfair, a process isn’t clear, or you’re not sure where to turn.
That’s where the Office of the Ombuds comes in.
We’re your confidential, independent, and informal resource when you’re facing university-related concerns and don’t know where else to go. We don’t take sides. We’re here to listen, help you understand your options, and support you as you move forward.
To request an appointment, call or email:
Please note: If you do not want your email address released in response to a public record request, do not send emails to the office.
Innovation, Science, & Technology Building – Room 2093
4700 Research Way
Lakeland, FL 33805
What We Do
Think of us as problem-solving generalists. We:
- Help you understand your situation from all angles
- Explain policies and procedures in plain language
- Clarify your options so you can take confident next steps
- Offer an impartial ear and confidential space to talk
- Guide you toward campus resources or resolution pathways
We are not part of formal complaint or legal processes—we’re a safe, informal space to explore solutions and feel heard.
When to Contact the Ombuds Office
You’re welcome to reach out if:
- You’re not sure where to go for help
- You feel a situation hasn’t been handled fairly
- You need clarity on a university policy or process
- You want to talk confidentially about a concern
- You’ve tried other routes and still need support
- You want to share feedback that could help the university improve
What We Can Help With
- Listen to your concerns in confidence
- Help you understand policies, procedures, and next steps
- Explore your options and possible outcomes
- Facilitate difficult conversations
- Connect you with the right campus offices and contacts
What We Cannot Help With
- Overturn decisions or mandate outcomes
- Provide legal advice
- Act as an advocate for either side
- Replace formal complaint or grievance procedures
Student Complaints & Appeals
Florida Poly values open communication and strives to resolve student concerns thoughtfully and fairly. The Student Complaints and Appeals Process offers:
- A structured pathway for students to raise unresolved concerns
- Informal support via the Office of the Student Ombuds, which reports to the President
A formal process through the University Appeals Committee, which meets monthly to address issues where no existing appeal process exists or has been exhausted (University Policy FPU-3.0031P)
Professional Standards
The Ombuds Office follows the International Ombuds Association (IOA) Code of Ethics, which includes:
- Independence – We operate independently of university departments.
- Impartiality – We don’t take sides or advocate for any party.
- Confidentiality – What you share stays private (with limited legal exceptions).
- Informality – We are an informal resource and do not participate in official university processes.
Confidentiality & Public Records
We keep all conversations confidential, unless there is:
- Imminent risk of serious harm
- Suspected abuse or neglect
- A legal requirement to report
Please note: Under Florida’s public records laws, emails sent to university addresses may be subject to public disclosure. If you prefer to remain anonymous, we recommend calling instead of emailing.
Schedule an Appointment
Ready to talk? We’re here to listen.
863-874-8500 | ombuds@floridapoly.edu
Please avoid sending sensitive details via email. If you do not want your email address released in response to a public records request, contact us by phone.
