Staff Ombuds
The Staff Ombuds provides services to exempt and non-exempt staff in addressing workplace issues and concerns. Operating outside of ordinary administrative structures, the Staff Ombuds serves as a resource, i.e. counselor, mediator, negotiator, but not as an advocate for any party within a dispute. The position is located in the Office of the President.
The Staff Ombuds can also work with visitors on ways to develop effective working relationships, particularly building on engaged and inclusive workplace priorities and practices. The position provides information to visitors about the grievance process and reporting procedures and attempts to address workplace issues informally.
There are many work-related issues and concerns that can be resolved before escalating to a point that causes staff to file a grievance, seek legal assistance, or resign their position. The types of concerns brought to the Staff Ombuds include, but are not limited to: supervisor and/or co-worker conflicts, Performance Review and Development (P.R.D.) issues, and other personnel concerns. Where there are patterns of concern, the Staff Ombuds will focus on opportunities for improvement that will contribute to staff well-being and the vitality of the workplace. When making any recommendations, the Staff Ombuds is expected to assume the responsibility of advocating for change that will be equitable to all parties.
The Staff Ombuds deals with strictly work-related issues. University staff experiencing personal or any other types of non-work related issues should refer to our list of additional resources.
Staff Ombuds
Mashanda Mosley has experience in employee/labor relations and in all aspects of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) with a focus on mediation. Ms. Mosley's expertise is in working with a large, varied workforce, including mediating conflicts with staff at all levels and with culturally diverse backgrounds. Ms. Mosley also has significant experience leading workforce training on conflict management.
Ms. Mosley earned her B.A. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and her J.D. from North Carolina Central University School of Law.
Contact InformationMs. Mashanda MosleyPhone: 301.405.0805Fax: 301.405.0806Email: umd-staff-ombuds@umd.edu
HoursBy appointment only: A variety of appointment times are made available to offer flexibility. Appointments are offered via a virtual format (Zoom), by phone, or in person. To schedule an appointment, please send an email request to umd-staff-ombuds@umd.edu.
Voicemail messages are checked regularly. Messages are confidential and only handled by the Staff Ombuds staff. Every effort is made to return your message as soon as possible.