The MSU Denver Ombuds Resource
Independent. Impartial. Informal. Confidential.
If you experience any kind of workplace issue and you are not sure what to do or who to talk to, the ombuds team is here for you!
We can help with any workplace issue, including:
- Communication challenges
- Abrasive behavior
- Unethical behavior
- Microaggressions
- Perceived unfair treatment
- Perceived harassment/discrimination
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- Challenging group dynamics
- Accusations against you
- Fear of speaking up
- Confusing/concerning processes or procedures
- Any other concern, big or small
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In a confidential, off-the-record meeting, we will listen, explore different options for addressing your concerns, help you navigate relevant organizational resources, and coach you through how to effectively communicate your concerns to others should you choose to do so. We can also help facilitate informal discussions between two or more people when appropriate or work with groups experiencing conflict.
What is an ombuds? The term “ombuds” (pronounced “ahm–buhds”) comes from a Swedish term meaning “a person who has an ear to the people.” The ombuds team is an independent, impartial, informal, and confidential resource for MSU Denver staff, faculty and graduate students . The ombuds team has two ombuds (LaCrisia “Cris” Gilbert, and Michael Stephens, see bios below) available to work with staff, faculty and graduate students to effectively manage, address, and surface university-related issues. The ombuds team supplements and does not replace formal administrative channels.
FAQs:
For answers to frequently asked questions about the ombuds resource, please see this page: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).
About the Ombuds Team at MSU Denver:
MSU Denver employees should contact one of the ombuds below to discuss concerns and options for resolution.
LaCrisia “Cris” Gilbert (cris-ombuds@mwi.org and 214-802-3339) is a member of MWI’s ombuds panel and has served as both an organizational and advocate ombuds. Her ombuds career started in 2012 as an advocate ombuds in the State of Texas where she advocated for residents in long-term care and assisted living facilities, working with closely with regulatory and individual facilities and their administrations. Utilizing over 30 years in the ADR field as a mediator, facilitator (specializing in Faith-based organizations), professor and trainer, Cris was instrumental in resolving conflicts at all levels from family, civil court cases to facility issues. Cris has served as an organizational ombudsman with a university, assisting faculty, staff, and students as well as training compliance investigators in mediation, conflict resolution, and DEI initiatives for the organization. She has also worked as a facilitator, assisting HR and Compliance with informal resolutions. She serves in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) on two campus initiatives (the President’s DEI Council and Social Justice, Equity and Inclusion Council). Book a time to talk with Cris by sending an email to cris-ombuds@mwi.org and 214-802-3339.
Michael Stephens (michael-ombuds@mwi.org and 413-341-6977) is an experienced ombuds, mediator and coach with the goal of helping foster good working relations and a more positive culture in the organizations he serves. Michael is a member of the International Ombuds Association, and has significant experience as an ombuds in both corporate and academic settings. Michael has a certification in Mediation from the Mediation Training Institute. Michael worked for many years as an ombuds, as well as the manager of other ombuds, at Merck, a multi-national pharmaceutical company. Before that, he had many years of experience in Human Resources roles at Merck and several other companies. After retiring from Merck, he has served as ombuds for Amherst College and Smith College. Michael is also an experienced facilitator and workshop leader, specializing in communications skills, conflict resolution and change management. He has a bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Colorado and a Masters in Business Administration from New York University. Schedule a time to talk with Michael by sending an email to michael-ombuds@mwi.org or by calling 413-341-6977.
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