IntegrityStar, August 2025 edition
In the last edition of the IntegrityStar we shared various concerns that were reported to the UCF IntegrityLine that were more appropriate to report through other university channels. In this edition, we wanted to feature a valuable resource that can help individuals who may be unsure of where to go when faced with a concern that may not quite rise to the level of misconduct.
The UCF IntegrityLine is one avenue for reporting allegations of employee misconduct. Sometimes we experience issues that may not be misconduct but are still very concerning. We see these types of reports come into the IntegrityLine. As one example, an employee reported an interaction they had with their new supervisor during a meeting which left the employee feeling intimidated. This employee said they did not feel comfortable going to leadership about the interaction because they had just appointed the new supervisor. The employee simply wanted the supervisor to be more approachable. This type of issue is best handled between the employee and the supervisor, but often employees need assistance on how to approach the issue. When we receive these types of reports through the IntegrityLine we advise the employee that it is best to seek guidance from Human Resources, and we provide the appropriate contact information. We also provide the contact information for a confidential resource, the University Ombuds Office.
Here’s more information on this valuable university resource:
Do you need help?
Do you need someone to listen to you?
Is something bothering you and you don’t know where to go?
The UCF Ombuds Office is an informal, independent, confidential, neutral office that offers assistance and impartial advice regarding concerns related to the university. The Ombuds Officer will listen to concerns and will facilitate the resolution of problems. The Ombuds Office is not a place where you report wrongdoing, although they can provide guidance and direct you to the appropriate office. The Ombuds Officer encourages people to resolve problems at the lowest possible level, rather than let the problem escalate. Here is what the Ombuds Office can and cannot do:
The Ombuds Can:
- Listen to your concern
- Clarify university policy
- Answer questions concerning appropriate channels
- Assist with problems that other offices have not resolved
- Informally look into your concern
- Make referrals to individuals who can address your concern
- Help define options that are available to you
- Recommend changes to university policy, rules, or procedures that are outdated, unclear, or ineffective
- Open avenues of communication; facilitate conversations
- Offer a SAFE place to discuss your concerns
The Ombuds Cannot:
- Advocate for an individual or group
- Provide legal advice or representation
- Assist with a non-university related concern
- Tell someone what to do
- Participate in any investigative procedures
- Engage in matters that are undergoing formal process
- Accept formal complaints or serve as an office of notice
When should I see an Ombuds Officer?
- If you feel trapped or lost in an endless maze
- If you’re confused about university policy
- If you need someone to listen to your concern
- If you are seeking informal ways to resolve the issues you face
- If you’re not sure where to go for help
Each year, on the second Thursday in October, Ombuds Day is celebrated to recognize the important work of the Ombuds Office. Thursday, October 9, 2025, is the 8th annual Ombuds Day! This year’s theme is “Ombuds: Empowering Voices; Resolving Challenges”. To learn more about this unique profession, you can visit the American Bar Association Ombuds Day website.