Employee Ombudsperson

History:

The Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) established the services of an Employee Ombudsperson in 2007. In doing so, the District's goal was to provide employees with confidential and informal assistance in resolving workplace concerns such as conflicts and ethics issues related to suspected compliance or policy violations. Such a service helps to enhance the overall quality of work life at MCCCD

Who or What is an Ombudsperson?

The Maricopa Ombudsperson assists in better serving the interests of public accountability and responsiveness by offering informal and neutral assistance to internal and external constituents when they have disputes or concerns regarding the Maricopa Community Colleges. We facilitate the resolution of constituent concerns that are not otherwise addressed at a college or at the district level, and deliver information about Maricopa's processes that would serve a constituent's needs. The Ombudsperson can be a first resource when a party is not sure where to go to get information regarding a particular situation or, as a last resort when other channels of communication have failed. The Ombudsperson does not serve to circumvent established processes, but instead helps to facilitate the review of concerns and resolutions through the proper avenues.

For more information, please visit:
http://www.maricopa.edu/publicstewardship/ombuds/about.htm

How Can I Benefit From These Services?

The Ombudsperson can be a first resource when an employee doesn't know where to go to get information regarding a particular situation or, as a last resort, when other channels of communication have failed to result in a resolution.

The Ombudsperson Will:

• Receive and review your concerns
• Provide impartial and confidential consultation to MCCCD employees who are concerned about an issue but will not maintain permanent records regarding such issues.
• Search for a resolution to disputes and help resolve problems with working conditions or ethical issues
• Offer feedback and provide information and resources on policies, procedures and services
• Protect the parties' right to privacy
• Inform the individual(s) initiating the complaint of the review's outcome and may offer advice as to an appropriate course of action
• Attempt to guide parties towards options that are fair and conform to MCCCD policies
• Consult with appropriate parties to develop cooperative strategies for complain resolution
• Use shuttle diplomacy and/or negotiate skills to facilitate communication among parties in conflict
• Follow up to be certain agreed-upon resolutions have taken place.

Who May Contact The Ombudsperson?

Any employee who has a question or concern. If you wish, your name can be kept confidential. Anonymous complaints are also addressed pursuant to Governing Board policy.

What is the Cost and How can I Contact the Ombudsperson?

Services are free and contact may be made in person or in writing.

• Telephone: 480-731-8084
• Email: teresa.toney@domail.maricopa.edu