The Auburn University Ombuds Office is a confidential, impartial, independent, and informal resource designed to help all members of the Auburn family successfully navigate difficult situations and conflicts.
Welcome to the Ombuds Office
The Ombudspersons are responsible to the principles of independence, neutrality, confidentiality, and informality, as well as the values and mission of Auburn University. Every visitor to the Ombuds Office is treated with respect, dignity, and honor.
People visit our office for many reasons. Some want to talk about their issue with an impartial person who has a fresh perspective. Some are reluctant to use formal channels. Some just don’t know where to go with their problem. Some have tried other avenues to get help but have not found what they need or feel caught in a bureaucracy.
If you are not sure whether the Ombuds Office can help, please contact us, no matter how big or small your issue. You may visit us confidentially as a first step, a last resort, or anywhere in between.
MEET YOUR OMBUDS
Kevin Coonrod, JD
University Ombuds – kcc0024@auburn.edu
Mr. Coonrod is a frequent speaker on conflict resolution topics, where he enjoys conveying his confidence in the ability of people to resolve their own conflicts through creativity and self-empowerment.
Coonrod is a member of the International Ombudsman Association and the California Caucus of College and University Ombuds. He is a Certified Organizational Ombudsman Practitioner and a member of the Alabama State Court Mediator Roster.
Coonrod comes to Auburn from the Pacific Northwest, where he received a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Washington and his juris doctorate from the University of Idaho College of Law.
Dr. Yarbrough has worked in higher education for 20+ years as a scholar, teacher, academic affairs administrator, student affairs administrator, complaint investigator, and leader of departments and initiatives promoting leadership, inclusivity, engagement, and belonging.
Previously the Ombuds for Students at Emory University, Yarbrough is a member of the International Ombudsman Association and the California Caucus of College and University Ombuds. She has training and experience in dispute resolution techniques and is a registered neutral (mediator) with the State of Georgia.
Yarbrough enjoys helping people resolve conflicts and issues, improve their communication and leadership skills, and lead more fulfilling lives. Originally from Mississippi and Florida, she received her PhD in English from the University of Virginia. Her teaching experience in writing, public speaking, literature, and cultural studies informs her ombuds practice.
The proud daughter and granddaughter of public school teachers, she believes passionately in the power of public education to positively transform people and the world.
Dona Yarbrough, PHD
Associate University Ombuds – dly0010@auburn.edu
