The Ombuds Office
The University of Waterloo has officially launched its new Ombuds Office, providing students with a confidential, impartial, and independent resource for navigating academic and non-academic challenges. They help students navigate University policies, understand their rights, and explore support options.
For a full breakdown of what the Ombuds Office can and can’t assist with, visit: Introducing Waterloo’s New Ombuds Office.
Whitney Barrett, Waterloo Ombudsperson
Connect with the Ombuds Office
We’re pleased to introduce Whitney Barrett as Waterloo’s Ombudsperson. Whitney joins us from Western University, where she has been supporting students in their Ombuds Office since 2020. Her expertise will be instrumental in helping students understand their rights and options when facing concerns at the university.
How did we get here?
The return of the Ombuds Office is the result of years of dedicated student advocacy from WUSA, GSA, and the Committee on Student Mental Health (CoSMH). Countless student leaders have played a role in making this happen. Until now, Waterloo was one of the few Canadian universities without an Ombuds Office—its return is a major step forward in student support and fairness.
Advocating for change on campus takes persistence, collaboration, and strategic leadership. For insights on what it takes to drive meaningful change as a student leader, check out Insights from a Former WUSA VP.
Additional Student Support and Resources
Got a legal issue? Whether it’s academic rights, co-op disputes, or housing problems, this program provides students with legal advice to help navigate the complexities of student life.
If you’re having trouble navigating academic policies, need to file a petition, or want to pursue a grievance or appeal, the Centre for Academic Policy Support (CAPS) is the place to go for guidance and support.
Glow is your go-to for resources and advocacy related to sexual orientation and gender identity. They offer a supportive space for students to find community and learn more about issues affecting the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
If you’re dealing with academic, social, or mental health challenges, Mates Peer Support is here to help. They provide a safe space to talk things out and connect with others.
Racial Advocacy for Inclusion, Solidarity, and Equity (RAISE) works to tackle racial equity issues and fight systemic barriers. They’re focused on creating a more inclusive campus by advocating for the voices and needs of racialized students.
The Women’s Centre is a supportive space for students who identify as women, offering peer support, resources, and educational events through an intersectional feminist lens. They provide sexual health resources, workshops, a diverse library, and connections to campus and community support.
This resource is all about supporting students who identify as women. They offer services related to sexual health, mental health, and healthy relationships, and they’re a great place to find community and advocacy support.