The Office of the Staff Ombuds promotes a civil and inclusive university community by providing independent, confidential, impartial and informal conflict resolution services to all non-bargained-for staff on the Ann Arbor, Dearborn and Flint campuses and at Michigan Medicine. We are dedicated to fostering a culture of healthy, safe and open dialogue and facilitating cooperative problem-solving resolution.
A Safe Place to Explore Your Options
The Staff Ombuds differs from Human Resources and other conflict resolution services because we do not require a formal university process. Our free and confidential services are visitor-initiated and all options provided are used at the discretion of the staff member. We do not make administrative decisions, conduct investigations and/or have any authority to change disciplinary action. If you are not sure where to take a concern, the Staff Ombuds is a safe place to start.
Our office was created as a direct result of Campus Climate Survey feedback that revealed many staff members were in need of additional support to resolve concerns and navigate university programs and resources. We offer trained professionals with institutional knowledge who will listen to your concerns and explore and evaluate your options with you. If your concern requires a formal process or mediation, we will refer you to other appropriate resources or office(s).
Meet the Assistant Vice President/Staff Ombuds
Jacqueline Bowman, Ph.D., has dedicated her career to helping others find solutions and resolve conflicts. As a member of the International Ombuds Association (IOA), she embraces the mission of assisting staff in resolving issues and helping to create a positive and equitable workplace. Dr. Bowman holds a doctorate degree in educational psychology from U-M. Previously, she worked as a lead counselor and program specialist at the Center for the Education of Women (CEW+) from 2008-18. Before that, she established an ombuds office at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and worked as a corporate ombudsperson for a Fortune 500 company, providing confidential, informal dispute resolution services.
Meet the Associate Ombuds
Michael N. Herrington, M.Ed., SPHR, has dedicated his career to facilitating the growth and success of others. As a member of the International Ombuds Association (IOA), he embraces the mission of confidentially assisting staff in resolving issues and helping to create a positive and equitable workplace. Michael earned a M.Ed. in Counselor Education from Pennsylvania State University, a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Windsor, and is SPHR certified. Michael has previously worked as a Counselor, Student Affairs administrator, Senior Human Resources professional, and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Learning Lead and Consultant.
Meet the Assistant Ombuds
Jeff Witt (he, him) currently serves as the Assistant Ombuds in the Office of the Staff Ombuds at the University of Michigan. He is a member of the International Ombuds Association (IOA) and adheres to their principles. Also, Jeff serves as the Director of Organizational Development and DEI with the UM Library where he has been for nine years. He has earned an MBA and a Master of Education from the University of Toledo and has spent 25+ years in higher education. Past positions have included Assistant Dean of Students and Assistant Director of the Office of Equity & Diversity. Jeff is a lifelong learner and strives to continue growing in areas of particular interest and exploration including leadership development, inclusive organizational strategy, anti-racism and allyship, LGBTQ issues and disability issues.
Meet the Administrative Specialist
Mindy Swarthout, B.A., SPHR, has dedicated her career to supporting others. Prior to joining the university, Mindy had more than 20 years of human resources experience where she served as a business partner focused on employee relations, recruitment, training and development, and coaching. She is proud to work in an office that provides a safe, confidential space for staff to address their workplace concerns. Mindy earned a B.A. in Human Resources Management from Baker College and is SPHR certified.
“My entire professional career is anchored by a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. As someone with deep and enduring ties to this campus, it is an honor to support the staff and the mission to ensure an equitable community.”
Jacqueline Bowman, Ph.D., Staff Ombudsperson
