Northwestern has named Sarah Klaper as its first ombudsperson following a national search, according to a Thursday news release.
An ombudsperson serves as a “neutral, independent, impartial and confidential” resource for members of the community, offering assistance on academic and work-related issues and conflicts. This includes directing individuals to the appropriate University policies and resources or acting as a third-party conciliator for two conflicting parties.
Klaper, who previously served as Northern Illinois University’s ombudsperson for nine years, will start at NU on Aug. 1. She will report directly to the provost and is responsible for creating an Office of the Ombudsperson.