Academic Student Ombudsman and Advocate

Mission Statement

The Office of the Academic Ombudsman and Advocate provides all undergraduate students with an impartial, independent, confidential, safe and informal dispute management and resolution environment to address questions and concerns about University policies and procedures. The Ombudsman will advocate for fairness and promote a positive campus climate and community.

Leatha M. Bennett, Ph.D., Ombuds

Promoting Fairness…Respecting the Individual…Providing a Safe Place

Dr. Bennett has been a member of the University community for over 11 years. Prior to becoming the Academic Student Ombudsman, she was the Director of the Office of Retention and Academic Support. Her professional areas of expertise include employee counseling, contract negotiation, informal mediation of group conflicts, and assisting individuals to develop strategies for conflict resolution. Dr. Bennett serves as Ombudsman for undergraduate students/community at the University. She is a member of the International Ombudsman Association.

About the Office
The Office is a component of the Office of Retention and Persistence and exists as an independent resource for problem resolution and works to ensure that all members of the undergraduate community are treated equitably and fairly. The Ombudsman can provide confidential and informal assistance to help resolve issues related to the undergraduate academic environment. An undergraduate student who visits the office can discuss issues and concerns with the Ombudsman without committing to further disclosure or any formal resolution. The Academic Ombudsman Office provides designated University administrators with a confidential analysis of all issues brought to her attention and may recommend a corrective course of action.  The Office is guided by the International Ombudsman Association’s Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. The Ombudsman is confidential, independent, and neutral.

To make a confidential appointment with the Ombuds, please call 256.372.5491 or send a confidential email to leatha.bennett@aamu.edu. The Ombuds will not handle third party questions you must make direct contact with the Ombuds.

The services of the Ombudsman do not replace formal grievance processes at the University; rather, they are an additional option. Therefore, students are encouraged to resolve university concerns by contacting the campus office responsible for the area relevant to the complaint. If dissatisfied with the response, the student may contact the relevant area supervisor, director, department chair, or dean for resolution.

Where Can I Find The Ombudsman?

The office is located in Thomas Hall.
Office hours: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, or other times by appointment.