What is an ombudsperson?

An ombudsperson is an impartial, neutral and confidential dispute resolver who strives to see that faculty, staff and students at the college are treated fairly and equitably. The ombudsperson does not take sides, but considers the rights and interests of all parties, with the goal of achieving fair outcomes.

What services does an ombudsperson provide?

An ombudsperson may:

• Hear and discuss your concerns regarding academic or workplace problems.
• Open avenues of communication and gather information.
• Provide information about college policies and refer you to other college services and programs.
• Mediate and seek an informal resolution before the issue progresses to formal proceedings. (Ombudspersons may not mediate in matters involving allegations of harassment, discrimination, or the appeal of academic decisions. In such cases, the ombudsperson may provide information and access to the appropriate procedures.)

Who can use the services of the ombudsperson and how confidential are they?

Any faculty, student or staff members may seek the advice of the ombudsperson. The ombudspersons will not identify you or your confidences without your permission except where required by law. The ombudspersons are authorized to talk to all persons at the college in order to resolve problems. Ombudspersons and any information they have gathered cannot be called as a witness or used as evidence in any formal college proceedings.

How can I get in touch with an ombudsperson?

HACC's ombudspersons are:

Name	Position	Campus	Room	Contact
Leslie Boon	Director, Academic Success	Gettysburg	208B	(717) 337-3855; x3021
Dr. Carole Dorsh	Associate Professor of Biology	York	Y108C	(717) 718-0328; x3524
Marcia Waters	Specialist, Admissions Recruitment	Lancaster	RM216,	(717) 358-2997
Jerry Fernandes	Assistant Professor of Speech	Lancaster	RE316	(717) 358-2839
Brenda Eppley	Professor of Theatre	Harrisburg	A121	(717) 780-2521
Margie MacDonald	Campus Director, Academic Success	Harrisburg	W132	(717) 780-2456
Ben Greiner	Security Officer	Lebanon	D103	(717) 270-6305

You may contact any of the ombudspersons regardless of your campus location or your status of student, staff, or faculty.