The ombudsperson can listen, offer information about Oberlin’s policies and procedures, accept suggestions from people who seek confidential channels for raising responsible concerns, and work for orderly and responsible change in systems.

In helping to resolve conflicts, the ombudsperson may serve as go-between or as a mediator, and the ombudsperson may help ensure that problems are brought to the attention of appropriate people at the College.

How the Ombudsperson Can Help
The ombudsperson employs a number of strategies in
facilitating resolution to conflicts. Depending on the situation,
the ombudsperson will:

• Listen and discuss questions, concerns, and complaints
  
• Answer questions or help find others who can
  
• Help clarify and resolve conflicts
  
• Help individuals develop and evaluate options or courses of action, and assist in pursuing them
  
• Be responsive to campus health, safety, and ethical concerns
  
• Mediate disputes by bringing the parties involved together to reach "win-win" resolutions (OCDC)
  
• Advise individuals about formal and administrative options
  
• Point out patterns of problems or complaints to administrators
  
• Promote fair and equitable treatment for Oberlin College and for all members of the Oberlin community

• Interpersonal conflicts
  
• Housing and dining issues
  
• Financial concerns
  
• Roommate concerns
  
• Faculty/staff/student misunderstandings
  
• Unethical behavior
  
• Fear of retaliation
  
• Interpersonal miscommunication
  
• Unfair treatment