Office of the Ombuds

Marshall University Ombuds Office

The Swedish word ombuds, pronounced (ahm-budz), is a 19th century term that is now defined more broadly as “ear to the people”. The purpose of the Marshall University Ombuds office is to assure that your voice can be heard and the problem you are facing can receive an impartial review.

As a member of the International Ombudsman Association (IOA), this office operates consistently with the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice of the IOA.

Those principles are:

Confidentiality – This office will not identify you or discuss your particular concerns with anyone without your permission. Exception is taken when we believe that disclosure is necessary to address imminent risk of serious harm.
Impartial – This office advocates for fair processes, considers the rights and interest of all parties, and does not take sides.
Informal – This office is an off-the-record, voluntary resource. Use of this office does not provide notice to the University.
Independent – This office exercises autonomy regarding responsibilities. This office is independent and is situated outside of the University’s normal administrative structure to better ensure impartiality.

This office is designed to help students, faculty and staff in any way it can, whether it’s listening, directing you to the appropriate university office, identifying your options, or coaching you to prepare for a difficult conversation.

Our Location

Memorial Student Center, BW14

Our Team

University Ombuds

Headshot of Lekesha Taylor
Le’Kesha Taylor
Email: ombuds@marshall.edu
Phone: 304-696-2438

Faculty Ombuds

Headshot of Dr. Robin Riner
Dr. Robin Riner
Email: ombuds@marshall.edu
Phone: 304-696-2788

You are welcome to email the Ombuds Office, but please note that email communications are not considered confidential and are subject to records requests.

How Can We Help?

Schedule an Appointment
FAQs
Resources
Workshops and Trainings
Disclaimer

The Office of the Ombuds is not authorized to accept notice of allegations of violations of law or other formal complaints. No employee or other University constituent may compel the Office of the Ombuds to disclose information. By electing to utilize the voluntary services offered by the Office of the Ombuds, visitors agree to abide by its confidentiality standard of practice and terms of use, including never seeking to compel the Office of the Ombuds to disclose any information received as part of providing ombuds services in any other forum, including a formal grievance or lawsuit.

Confidentiality cannot be promised in matters relating to threats to public safety, child abuse, if there is an imminent risk of serious harm, if the matter is required to be reported pursuant to Title IX regulations, as otherwise may be required by law or if compelled by a court of law.

Speaking with an Ombuds does not constitute legal notice to the University of any problem, concern or complaint. You must pursue alternative complaint avenues if you wish to obligate the University to respond in any way. The Ombuds has no duty or responsibility to report incidents to any person or authority, other than as described above.