National University Office of the Ombudsman

The Ombudsman Office is an informal, impartial, independent, neutral and confidential place for community members to address concerns. This office works to provide informal assistance to resolve differences and help build mutual understanding. The University is committed to providing its community with an outlet for informally raising and addressing concerns in a confidential, independent, safe, supportive, respectful and neutral environment.

The Ombudsman Office reports administratively to the President of the University but operates independently and has no formal decision-making authority or disciplinary responsibilities. Ombudsman do not act as advocates for any one position in a dispute; rather they strive for fairness of process and healthy conflict resolution. Interactions with the University Ombudsman supplement, but do not replace, formal processes relating to employment with the University.

Faculty, students, and staff are welcome and encouraged to contact the university Ombudsman for unbiased assistance and guidance in resolving any complaints or concerns. The purpose of the Ombudsman Office is to ensure that everyone at National University is heard and given the proper respect and support in handling grievances. The Ombudsman will first help find a solution to the raised situation; and then will assist in determining whether a formal complaint is the appropriate course of action, and if so, will guide individuals to the necessary channels.

The Office of the University Ombudsman believes it is most effective to meet with you in person but can speak with you over the phone if you prefer. Generally, the office does not work through email and discourages you from emailing any confidential information. For assistance, please contact the National University Office of the Ombudsman at (858) 642-8368 or ombuds@nu.edu. Appointments can be scheduled at our San Diego and Scripps Ranch locations.

LaCrisia (Cris) Gilbert
NU Ombudsman

National University
Spectrum Business Park Academic Headquarters
9388 Lightwave Ave,
San Diego, CA 92123

National University
Scripps Ranch
9980 Carroll Canyon Rd,
San Diego, CA 92131

Standards of Practice

Some examples of common issues that can be discussed with the University Ombudsman Office:

  • Miscommunication between supervisors, coworkers, employees, and/or students
  • Confusion around policies and/or procedures
  • Ethical and unfair treatment concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

Ombuds (also known as ombudsman or ombudsperson) is a gender-neutral term, which is short for the word “ombudsman.” The ombuds profession originated in Sweden a few hundred years ago, when ombudsmen served as representatives of the king. The ombuds profession strives to assist individuals and groups to manage conflict effectively.

The Ombuds assist visitors by listening to concerns, exploring options and paths, brainstorming strategies, weighing the pros and cons, and providing other possible resources.

National University has designated the Ombuds Office as a confidential place to share issues and concerns. Exceptions to confidentiality include imminent risk of serious harm, and child and elder abuse and neglect. If there are patterns and trends, the Ombuds are also able to share upward feedback with appropriate University personnel.

Faculty, Staff and Student of the University can use Ombuds services.

You can schedule an appointment to meet with the Ombuds by Zoom, Teams meeting or telephone or if it is not convenient to meet with the ombuds in person. For reasons of confidentiality, please note that the Ombuds Office does not permit the recording of conversations.

The Ombuds will first briefly review their code of ethics and then will spend a great deal of time listening to your narrative. They will then work with you to brainstorm possible options. They may also share models and strategies for conflict management. The Ombuds will not tell you what to do, but can help you explore the issue further by examining perspectives and patterns.

The Ombuds Office is a completely voluntary office and no one can be compelled to use the services of the Ombuds.

The Ombuds does not: 

  • Give legal advice
  • Provide counseling advice
  • Receive notice on behalf of the University
  • Advocate for any party; however, they can advocate for fair process.
  • Intervene in formal processes.

National University Resources

• Accessibility
• Ethics Point
• Financial Aid
• Office Of Educational Effectiveness and Accreditation
• Registrar and Grade Appeals
• Student Wellness