Office of Interactive Communication & Empowerment
Our office has moved, come see us in Burruss Hall:
800 Drillfield Drive, Suite 123D · Blacksburg, VA 24061
"Please take a moment to learn more about the Ombuds services available to you, especially if you are not sure where to turn for help. Over time, unresolved issues can become unhealthy, affecting your wellbeing, the success of your unit or department, and the strength of our community. Please consider reaching out while problems are still small, and respectful solutions are easier to achieve."
- President Tim Sands | READ MORE
What is the Ombuds Office?
You know how issues, disagreements and conflict naturally occur at any place where people learn and work - such as Virginia Tech? The Ombuds Office, officially named the Virginia Tech Office of Interactive Communication & Empowerment (VOICE), helps you navigate through that sea of conflict when it comes up. We offer tools, strategies and techniques that can help you go from where you are to where you want to be. If this is something valuable to you, reach out and we look forward to being of service. For a more in depth overview, watch this video: "What is an Ombuds?"
Confidentiality · Informality · Impartiality · Independence
Our Offering
One
Enhance the Virginia Tech experience
by providing individuals with a confidential space to speak freely and be listened to respectfully
Two
Provide coaching and Ombuds services
to help individuals navigate through the inevitable conflict challenges that come up in campus life and
Three
Encourage progress at the institutional level
by sharing with leadership aggregated information about issues of community concern.
Testimonials
"The confidentiality of this service was important to me. Honestly, my meeting with the Ombuds led to a SIGNIFICANTLY better workplace situation, which in turn improved my overall health and well-being. I wish you could understand the difference this ONE meeting made for me."
“It was an easy conversation. I felt comfortable speaking my mind, which takes a deal of trust & letting go. The Ombuds allowed me that security & freedom.”
“I really appreciate having this service on campus, and the confidentiality of the service is what makes it work. I strongly feel you have the perfect person in this Ombuds position who is able to relate a very diverse population of VT employees.”
On the Blog
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The Roots That Sustain Us: Connecting to Purpose in Higher Education’s Crisis of Confidence , articleHow do we live as public servants and educators in a time of public distrust in higher education? As many national policies increasingly reflect this distrust, here is a guide to connecting to purpose and wellbeing amid uncertainty.
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Being Decisive but Not Reckless: The Legend of the Gordian Knot , articleThere’s something about a good story that makes us repeat it and draw lessons from it. Unfortunately, the lessons drawn from a good story aren’t always what the story intended. Such is the case with the Gordian Knot. Read more to learn about the wisdom in bold decision making.
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What am I doing wrong? An Intro to the Art of Asking for Feedback , articleAre you unsure about your relationship with your supervisor, students, or colleagues? This post is the first in a series exploring the questions, trust, and skills that can help us gain the clarity—and relief—we need.
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Preparing for the Unexpected , articleYou and I might not be world-class athletes, but there are many lessons we can adopt from Olympians and apply those in the workplace to achieve more consistent peak performance.
Connect with the Ombuds Office
With many ways to reach out, we look forward to hearing from you!
Or connect with us through social media