Bruce MacAllister – who has made a career of ombuds work, particularly in higher education – has been hired to serve as ombudsperson at the University of Oregon. He is expected to begin at the UO in mid-March.

"We are delighted that MacAllister has chosen to bring his skills and rich background to the University of Oregon," UO President Michael Gottfredson said in announcing the hire.

MacAllister was one of four finalists for the position, and was interviewed on campus late last year.

He served most recently as director of the International Foundation for Online Responsibility's Ombudsman Program in Santa Fe, N.M. He worked 20 years for the University of California, including 10 years as the first Ombuds Program director for Los Alamos National Laboratory.

MacAllister has designed, implemented and managed ombuds programs, launching a number of higher education and corporate programs, both nationally and internationally.

“I’m flattered and excited that the University of Oregon community selected me from among the excellent candidates that applied for the position," MacAllister said. "I really enjoy working with organizations to help them with their ombudsman programs, and sharing my expertise in organizational conflict resolution, mediation, and training.

"I look forward to joining the university community and helping the UO implement a world-class university ombudsman program,” he said.

MacAllister earned his bachelor's degree in chemistry and biology from Phillips University, and his law degree from the University of Tulsa.

A position description for the UO ombudsperson describes the job as a " liaison between individuals or groups and the campus administration by serving as a consultant, facilitator, and informal mediator." The university's ombudsperson is expected to be an impartial, neutral and confidential third party who assists in dispute resolution through informal means.

- from the UO Office of Strategic Communications