The Principia College student ombudsman is an ACA staff member who helps students who have questions and concerns about academics and other aspects of college life.

The student ombudsman can act as a spokesperson or mediator for students who have informal complaints about faculty, staff, administration or on-campus services. If a student experiences frustration due to any academic or non-academic issues on campus, or even feels his or her rights have been violated, this student is encouraged to meet with the student ombudsman. Although the student ombudsman has no specific “authority”, students can receive assistance in the resolution of a wide range of academic and non-academic issues with the highest degree of confidentiality.

(Note: A step-by step guideline is shown below, for the Complaint Process)

This ACA staff member also works as an academic transition coordinator for students who are considering withdrawing on a temporary or permanent basis, coordinates the registration process for returning students, and is an academic advisor to freshmen and undeclared students.

Student Ombudsman: Suzie Goewert

Office: ACA (Academic & Career Advising), School of Government, main level, across from Writing Center

Phone: (on campus) ext. 5777,618-374-5777, 800-277-4648, ext. 2801

Email: skg@prin.edu

Step 1: A student concerned about an academic or non-academic issue meets informally with the student ombudsman. Resolution may occur at this level without the necessity of involving additional individuals. In this case, complete confidentiality is guaranteed.

Step 2: After talking with the student ombudsman, third-party individuals may be consulted when clarification is necessary. Every effort is made to accommodate the student’s needs and provide the student with the greatest confidentiality possible.

Additionally, the student ombudsman will arrange for and accompany the student to an informal meeting with the party being complained about. The expectation for this meeting is resolution of the immediate issue and healing on the part of all parties involved.

Step 3: The student submits a formal complaint if there is no resolution through the above two steps.

Step 4: The COMPLAINT ADMINISTRATOR in the Personnel Office oversees the resolution of the formal complaint.