Grinnell College is a private liberal arts college located in Grinnell Iowa. The Grinnell College Office of the Ombuds was established in 2013 as a designated confidential, informal, independent resource for members of the college community to voice their concerns and achieve resolution of disputes. The Office has experienced steady growth over the past five years and is poised for strategic development. Grinnell’s Ombuds engaged HNMCP to assess the current performance/efficacy of the Ombuds’ office to determine: what stakeholders need and expect from the Office; how and whether those needs are being met; the extent to which constituents value the services; and any potential barriers to constituent use. HNMCP will develop recommendations for improving access, awareness, and utility of the Grinnell College Office of the Ombuds.

Activities & Deliverables

• Research best practices for Ombuds programs with particular focus on what works within the context of higher education;
• Interview stakeholders, including focus groups and a survey if appropriate;
• Report findings and make recommendations for improvement;
• Present findings to the Office of the Ombuds, the Ombuds Advisory Council, and possibly senior staff.