Ombudsman for Algonquin College
George E. Cole was appointed as the Ombudsman in September 2011. His mandate includes providing an independent, impartial and confidential process through which students may pursue the resolution of any college‐related concern. He is also expected to provide information to students on Algonquin College policies and procedures, the rights and responsibilities of students in College situations, and offer advice on where and to whom complaints and inquiries are to be appropriately directed.
Having lived and worked internationally, George brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in conflict resolution; processes and systems of alternative dispute resolution; student services; cultural fluency; and a passion for fairness, equity, diversity, restorative justice, and human rights.
He has worked for many years in higher education as an administrator and faculty member. He offers seminars and training in conflict management; conducts mediations, facilitations and restorative justice conferences; and undertakes conflict assessment and systems design.
George is affiliated with the International Institute of Restorative Practices (IIRP), and holds membership in the Forum of Canadian Ombudsman (FCO), Association of Canadian Colleges and University Ombudspersons (ACCUO), International Ombudsman Association (IOA) and the Canadian Association of College and University Student Services (CACUSS). In his spare time, he volunteers for several non-profit organizations within the community.
Assistant Ombudsman
Barbara Carswell joined the Office of the Ombudsman in December 2017. She works with the Ombudsman and the Ombudsman Officer to provide an independent, impartial, and confidential process through which Algonquin students, applicants or alumni may pursue the resolution of any College-related concern.
In the course of her work, Barbara has conducted numerous mediations, facilitations in conflict resolution, and investigations into harassment and discrimination. As the Assistant Ombudsman, Barbara provides information to students on Algonquin College policies and procedures, the rights and responsibilities of students, and offers advice on where to appropriately direct complaints and inquiries within the College.
Barbara has had a lifelong interest in fairness, equity and in the evolving protection of human rights. She has served as Director of Equity Services at Carleton University, which included responsibility for the development of the Aboriginal Centre and as an acting Director of Student Affairs. She was the Director of Values and Ethics and Workplace Wellbeing at Global Affairs and she was the first incumbent of the conflict management office at the House of Commons (Administration), where her role also required her to advise on harassment and related issues.
Barbara has a Bachelor of Arts from The University of Western Ontario, and an LLB from the University of Ottawa; she was Called to the Bar in 1997, and remained a member in good standing until her retirement in 2016. She has obtained the credential of a Certified Canadian Human Resource Professional (CHRP) and has also accomplished fluency in French as a Second Language.
Ombudsman Officer
Carley Davidson joined the Office of the Ombudsman in September 2017. She works with the Ombudsman – and member(s) of the Office of the Ombudsman – to provide an independent, impartial, and confidential process through which students of Algonquin College may pursue the resolution of any College-related concern.In this role, Carley:
– Welcomes the students, faculty, and staff of Algonquin College to the office.
– Responds to inquiries about the role and services of the Office of the Ombudsman.
– Assists clientele to determine which matters should be referred to the Office of the Ombudsman, which should be referred to other people within the College, and/or which should be resolved by the client themselves.
Carley has worked internationally for a number of years, and brings her experience from various roles in education, social work, and human resources. Carley has a Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Education. She applies her scientific knowledge when analyzing information or in problem solving, and utilizes her teaching experience to empathize with multiple stakeholders, to communicate effectively and seek clarity of understanding, and to share professional training sessions to groups at the College. Carley continues to pursue training in conflict management and mediation through Saint Paul’s University and the Canadian Institute for Conflict Resolution.
You can contact George, Barbara, and Carley by:
Email: ombuds@algonquincollege.com
Phone (confidential line): 613-727-4723 ext. 6835
The Ombudsman’s office is located in the Ottawa campus (Student Commons Building – E112). Our office hours are Monday to Friday, 8:30am – 4:30pm, Eastern Standard Time (EST), excluding statutory holidays.
Walk-ins are welcome, however, an Ombudsman may not be able to see or speak with you if he or she is in a meeting with someone. It is suggested that you phone or email in advance to schedule an appointment.
The Ombudsman makes periodic visits to the Perth and Pembroke campuses.