Brown introduced herself to the Senate, described her role at the university as an organizational ombudsperson, as opposed to a governmental or investigatory one. Her role is to facilitate process. Her role is to listen, identify and advise re procedures. She can review letters, rehearse an approach to grievance procedures, make presentations, give referrals, etc. She can also provide direct mediation assistance through other units on campus.
Office is cloaked in confidentiality and privacy.
Her office is currently located in Room 420 Mary Reed Building, but Brown will meet with anyone anywhere by appointment. When she was asked how heavy her contact load is, and how she is getting the word out to the campus community, Brown indicated that her load is increasing, that she will be sending out letters, but has no support staff. There is an Ombuds Website, and she has been doing presentations to groups on campus. Brown was also asked about her own reporting lines. She replied that she answers directly to the Chancellor at this time, but that she observes total confidentiality in her dealings with him.