Advocacy Office

Here For You

The Students’ Union Okanagan of UBC was established to advocate for its membership and is committed to ensuring that your voice is heard and you are treated fairly at UBC Okanagan. All advocacy cases remain confidential, and advocacy services are free for UBC Okanagan students.

SUO Advocacy Office

The SUO Advocacy Office provides guidance and assistance to UBC Okanagan undergraduate and graduate students experiencing a challenge or conflict with their professor, Faculty, or UBC administration. We are here to provide students with information and support about their rights and responsibilities. Our office is independent of the University but we work cooperatively to assist students in achieving a constructive resolution.

Office of the Ombudsperson for Students

The Office of the Ombudsperson for Students is an independent, impartial, and confidential office supported by both UBC and the SUO to help students navigate campus-related fairness concerns. The Ombuds Office is not influenced in any way by the University, does not take sides, and does not share information unless authorized to do so. The Ombuds Office helps students explore options, identify existing resources, and problem-solve constructively. Their sound, practical advice empowers students to advocate for themselves.

The UBC Okanagan Ombuds Officer is Cindy Leonard. Cindy can be reached at: ombuds.office.ok@ubc.ca

Deciding Which Resource is Right for You

Both the Ombuds and Advocacy office staff can listen, clarify and help you understand your options when you feel you have been mistreated or find yourself in a conflict with the University. Both offices provide confidential services and, with permission, work together to assist students. But there are differences.

The Advocacy Office always takes the side of the student, whereas the Ombudsperson remains impartial. The Advocacy Office advocates for the individual, whereas the Ombuds Office advocates for overall fairness for the benefit of all students and the university community as a whole. The Advocacy Office has a part-time elected representative and staff member available to serve you, whereas the Office of the Ombudsperson has a full-time staff member located at UBC Okanagan to assist students.

On-Campus Resources
Community & Government Resources