DePaul University’s Ombudsperson, Rev. Craig Mousin, has occupied the position for 11 years. Many students don’t know his position even exists, yet he might be one of the most crucial peacekeepers DePaul has on staff. Rev. Mousin recently explained exactly what he does.

The DePaulia (TD): What exactly is an “ombudsman”?

Rev. Craig Mousin (CM): Well, I’m technically an “ombudsperson.” I can be thought of as a confidential, neutral and independent resource for all of DePaul’s faculty and staff. I’m sort of a safe harbor for people who have concerns in their work relationships or concerns that DePaul is not living up to its policies and procedures. I basically just address concerns and act as an intermediary.

TD: What kinds of solutions do you typically provide to concerned staff members?

CM: I do a lot of brainstorming within DePaul and try to formulate effective strategies for addressing issues that people have in the workplace.

TD: Do you only work with faculty, or can students come to you with concerns?

CM: I certainly don’t turn students away, but we have such a strong Student Affairs department, I generally try to send them there based on their individual concerns

TD: How long has the position existed?

CM: Well, the general idea of an ombudsperson began in the post-Vietnam years as a way to resolve issues within the heightened cultural climate. I think the position came to DePaul in the late ‘90s or early 2000’s. The position is growing around the country, although it is relatively new.

TD: Do you collaborate with ombudsperson at other schools or is most of your work done internally?

CM: Most definitely. Since my position requires confidentiality, I can’t spend a lot of time talking to other DePaul people about the issues. I’m part of a national association for ombudsperson. We spend a lot of time talking and brainstorming solutions for each other based on our own experiences at our various organizations.

TD: I see by your title that you’re a reverend.

CM: Yes, I’m a United Church of Christ minister. I’m also a lawyer and a law professor. Before this position, I directed the Center for Church-State Studies for the Law School.

TD: Finally, what is the goal of your position here as an ombudsperson?

CM: The overall goal of our office is to resolve conflicts peacefully and to help DePaul fulfill its Vincentian mission. We try to facilitate direct and candid conversations between all members of the university community and attempt to prevent miscommunication.

The work being done in this office seems to affect nearly every aspect of the university because they cater to all faculty and staff members. The ombudsperson office is a division of the Office of Mission and Values.