About the Ombuds Office

The overarching goal of the Wake Forest University School of Medicine (WFUSM) Faculty Ombuds office is to help to resolve academic and administrative problems and disputes through procedures that may be preferable to formal grievances or judicial proceedings. The office assists WFUSM faculty with any work-related difficulties, including interpersonal conflicts and misunderstandings, as well as academic or administrative concerns.

Key Principles

  • Confidentiality – Faculty members can expect a private environment where concerns can be shared freely.
  • Independence – The office operates independently of other departments and offices, ensuring unbiased support.
  • Neutrality – As an impartial resource, the office does not advocate for any party.
  • Informality – Issues are approached without the need for formal documentation or escalation unless necessary.

Purpose

The Faculty Ombuds person can assist faculty by providing information about Wake Forest University School of Medicine policies, procedures, and resources; coaching through difficult conversations and circumstances; facilitating informal conflict resolutions, or just listening and serving as a resource.

How to Contact the Ombuds Office

The Faculty Ombuds Office ensures confidentiality for all inquiries, providing a private setting for faculty to discuss concerns without formal documentation or escalation. For direct contact, faculty can reach out via email at FacultyOmbuds@wakehealth.edu or by phone at 336-413-7710.

Referrals may also be made through the Wake Forest University School of Medicine Compliance Hotline, operated independently by Navex. This secure, anonymous hotline is available toll-free at 877-880-7888.

Faculty Ombudsperson

The Wake Forest University School of Medicine Ombudsperson is Jeffrey Weiner, PhD. Dr. Weiner is available to provide confidential, independent support for faculty members seeking informal resolution to academic or administrative concerns. Dr. Weiner is dedicated to assisting faculty by offering guidance, facilitating difficult conversations, and helping address work-related challenges.

Wake Forest University Ombuds Office

Wake Forest University has a separate Ombuds Office that also provides a confidential, informal resource for faculty, staff, and administrators to discuss campus issues. It supplements formal dispute channels and is free and voluntary.