A phone call or written correspondence is received from a constituent.
- The nature of the issue is evaluated (example: information only, are options available, is further review needed; what action is needed, by whom?).
- If constituent seeks a response and has not undertaken measures to address the issue through established avenues at the college, the ombudsperson notifies the party of the proper avenues to follow.
- Certain non-routine matters are addressed with the appropriate college or district official with respect to identifying options for resolution.
- Where appropriate and upon request, the ombudsperson makes recommendations for the consideration of the appropriate college official.
The level or extent of involvement by the ombudsperson on any issue depends upon the nature of the issue. The Office of Public Stewardship is committed to having concerns and issues reviewed in a full and timely manner, but cannot guarantee the specific resolution that will transpire.
Examples of the types of matters that the ombudsperson might address:
- Allegations of fraud, misuse of public resources, threat of danger to a person or the institution, policy non-compliance, enrollment irregularities and conflict of interest
- Responding to a student inquiry why he or she cannot receive a reduced tuition;
- Assisting a member of the community to obtain a public record document;
- Fielding requests to reprint Maricopa copyrighted materials.
From the International Ombuds Association (IOA)
IOA Code of Ethics
Adopted 17 March 2022 by the Board of Directors of the International Ombuds Association. Effective 17 March, 2022.
IOA Standards of Practice
Adopted 17 March 2022 by the Board of Directors of the International Ombuds Association. Effective 17 March, 2022.