An ombudsperson is an advocate with a significant degree of autonomy and independence who investigates and mediates complaints and grievances. There is an Ombudsperson for the Department of Biology who can help if you find yourself in a situation where you would benefit from this kind of assistance.
If you have a grievance about a Biology course, the Ombudsperson will try to help you. Your complaint will receive individual attention and be dealt with nonjudgmentally and in confidence.
No. He has no real power to make decisions in your case. He will be quick to refer you to other people if he is stumped by your case. He will not accompany you to judicial hearings.
All matters discussed with the Ombudsperson remain confidential, unless you request otherwise. An exception to this are matters falling under the Title IX/Sexual Misconduct Policy, which the Ombudsperson is obligated to report as a Responsible Employee.
The Ombudsperson deals with concerns relating to any grievance a student has that grows out of a course in the Department of Biology. Some examples include:
That’s an excellent question with no simple answer. Each case is different. Use your own judgment.
Yes.
Neither. He is neutral. The Ombudsperson’s role is to help resolve conflicts if possible. If this cannot be done, he will refer you to other people.
Rich Holdeman, Senior Lecturer of Biology, is the Ombudsperson for Biology.
Dr. Holdeman is a caring individual as well as a seasoned member of the university community. He has been teaching at IU for more than 20 years. He also served as the Head Coach of the Indiana University hockey program for 13 seasons (1992-2003 and 2004-2006). Dr. Holdeman provides a neutral point of view and information about the university and the Department of Biology.
Call 812-855-3793, or email rholdema@indiana.edu to make an appointment.
His mailing address:
IU Department of Biology
Biology Bldg. 142
1001 E. Third St.
Bloomington, IN 47405
The College of Arts