Academic Dignity and Civility Assessments
The Office of the University Ombudsperson offers support to academic units by conducting assessments focused on academic civility and dignity within the faculty/student dynamic. This includes evaluating the climate of respect, fairness, and professionalism that shapes these relationships, as well as assessing how well faculty and staff understand and implement policies and procedures that establish clear expectations for behavior, communication, and conflict resolution. Our goal is to identify areas for improvement, promote constructive interactions, and foster a positive academic environment where all members of the community feel valued and heard. In addition, these assessments may include reviewing departmental practices, addressing potential gaps in understanding or adherence to institutional policies, and offering recommendations for enhancing civility and inclusivity in academic settings.
We understand that each academic unit is unique, and our approach is collaborative, allowing us to tailor our support to meet your specific needs. Whether through faculty workshops, student forums, policy reviews, or confidential feedback, we help create an atmosphere where everyone fees heard, valued, and empowered to engage constructively.
If you are interested in discussing a possible assessment for your unit or would like more information about how we can support your efforts, please reach out to us by e-mail at ombud@msu.edu or call (517) 353-8830. We look forward to collaborating with you to strengthen your unit's academic environment.