10.05 HMS/HSDM/HSPH Ombuds Office

The Ombuds Office, established in 1991, provides students with highly confidential independent assistance in managing or resolving issues affecting their work or academics. Students can talk informally and off the record with the impartial Ombudsperson in order to clarify their issues, identify their goals, and consider a range options to address their concerns. The Ombudsperson serves students (as well as faculty, staff and trainees) at Harvard Medical School, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. The Ombudsperson does not serve as an advocate for any party to a dispute. However, an Ombudsperson does advocate for fair treatment and processes. Some typical concerns brought to the Ombuds Office include work/learning environment and performance, fear of retaliation, professional misconduct, authorship, sexual harassment and discrimination. Any issue may be brought to the Ombudsperson.

The Ombuds Office seeks to enhance the ability of all students to deal more effectively with challenging situations on their own. If assistance is needed beyond individual coaching, further information can be gathered on behalf of the student, referrals can be made to those with expertise in a specific area or proper authorities at the school or affiliated institution can be contacted. When appropriate, the Ombudsperson can provide shuttle diplomacy or informal mediation services to help find a satisfactory solution. The student decides which course of action, if any, is taken and that action is tailored to fit each situation.

For more information:
HMS/HSDM/HSPH Ombuds Office
Melissa Brodrick, Ombudsperson

164 Longwood Avenue, First Floor
617-432-4040 (Ombuds)
617-432-4041 (Office)
617-432-0586 (confidential fax)
melissa_brodrick@hms.harvard.edu
https://hms.harvard.edu/departments/ombuds-office (includes self-help resources)

Office Hours:
Monday through Friday, 8AM-5PM

Call to schedule an appointment.

Last updated 8/10/18