Conflict Resolution Resources

If a graduate student experiences conflict with a faculty member, their mentor/advisor, or a teaching assistant (TA), we first encourage students to speak directly to that person and utilize good communication to work towards a resolution. If you have attempted to address the issue, or do not feel comfortable addressing this person directly, below are the campus resources available to all students.

• Kevin Coonrod, Ombudsman
• Graduate Student Comment Form
• Internal Complaint Process for Students – Andrew Taylor, Manager of Academic Compliance
• Schedule a Meeting with Graduate School Staff
• Speak with a counselor / Student Counseling & Psychological Services
• Speak with a trusted faculty member
• Speak with a trusted colleague/class member

There are also other mechanisms in place to provide feedback about your graduate student experiences and outcomes. Graduate students who are scheduled to graduate will be asked to complete the First Destination Survey (FDS), Survey of Earned Doctorates (doctoral candidates only), and the Graduating Graduate Student Survey, in their final semester of graduation.

Auburn University is committed to providing a working and academic environment free from discrimination and harassment and fostering a nurturing and vibrant community founded upon the fundamental dignity and worth of all its members. While the university is committed to these goals, discrimination and harassment still occur. Here is a list of resources available to those who experience or witness acts of discrimination or harassment. It is important not to let the incident go unreported, and corrective actions can be taken to prevent future incidents.

• Bias Education and Response Team (BERT):  An online form to report being the target of or witnessing a bias incident.  In addition to providing a record of the particular incident, this can be used to identify patterns or repeat offenders.
• Title IX:  Resources, information, and support for addressing sexual misconduct.
• Safe Harbor: Provides information, advocacy, and support for individuals who have experienced power-based personal violence.
• Ombuds Office: Confidential conversation and advice about any type of harassment.