Announcing: Student Ombudsperson Application

The University is now inviting registered degree-seeking students at the University of Chicago to apply for the positions of Student Ombudsperson and Associate Student Ombudsperson for the 2011-12 academic year. Applications are due no later than 5 p.m. on Friday, May 20, 2011.


Background:

The Office of the Student Ombudsperson derives its authority from the University's President. Appointed by the President, the Student Ombudsperson is responsible for managing the Office and investigating complaints brought by students. The Ombudsperson attempts to resolve problems without superseding the regular remedial processes of the University. The Associate Ombudsperson reports to the Ombudsperson and assists in individual cases and problem resolution. Together, they work with appropriate offices or officials to suggest steps in settlement of individual complaints, call attention to systematic problems, and recommend consideration of changes in rules, procedures, or policies.

Both the Ombudsperson’s and Associate Ombudsperson’s appointments are paid positions, for a 10-month period, beginning with Orientation week of the Fall Quarter. The position may extend through the summer months, by agreement with the Office of the President; however, summer hours will be more limited. The Ombudsperson generally works about 15 hours per week. The Associate Ombudsperson handles individual cases under the direction of the Ombudsperson, and is expected to work an average of 10 hours per week.

The University welcomes applications from both graduate and undergraduate students. Preference for the Associate Ombudsperson will be given to students who expect to spend at least two more years at the University, to allow for the possibility of continuity of office, should the Associate choose to apply and be selected to serve in the following year as Ombudsperson.

We will evaluate each candidate's qualifications with an emphasis on maturity, good judgment, independence, fairness, impartiality, extensive knowledge of the University, and strong writing skills. Those selected for the positions should be available at the end of Spring Quarter, 2011, to receive training from the incumbents.

If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact Margo S. Scher, Special Projects Associate, Campus and Student Life at 773.702.0247 or mscher@uchicago.edu.

Application Information:

If you are interested in applying for this position, please take the following two steps:

1. By May 12, 2011, indicate by email to (mscher@uchicago.edu) your interest in applying for this position.
2. No later than 5 p.m. on May 20, 2011, submit a completed application to the Office of Campus and Student Life, Room 235 of the Administration Building. The application must include a cover letter, resume or Curriculum Vitae, and two recommendation letters. Application instructions and the recommendation forms can be obtained on the website of the Office of the Student Ombudsperson.