Beer to serve as OSU's first ombudsperson
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
Former Oklahoma State University administrator Dr. Ronald Beer has been chosen to serve as the university’s first ombudsperson. In his new position, Beer will be available to investigate disputes involving students, faculty and staff, and assist parties in mediating fair settlements with the university, if reasonably possible.
“I hope you’ll join me in welcoming Dr. Beer back to campus. He was selected from a strong pool of candidates for the position, for which he is especially well suited, thanks to his 20 years of experience as vice president of student affairs here,” said OSU President Burns Hargis. Beer retired from his previous position in 2000.
Ombudspersons do not have the authority to force a settlement or other action. The goal is simply to attempt to assist the individuals involved in reaching a mutually agreeable resolution of the dispute, while maintaining confidentiality throughout the process.
The ombudsperson does not replace: (1) EthicsPoint which is available to receive anonymous complaints of apparently wrongful conduct by OSU employees or (2) other formal grievance processes under established OSU policies. Individuals may pursue their formal grievance rights after attempting to resolve a dispute through the ombudsperson.
Beer may be reached by email, ombuds@okstate.edu, or by phone, (405) 744-6627 (4-ombs). His office is located at 336 Student Union.