The Office of the Ombudsperson shares reports as part of its responsibilities outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding, which requires the Office to communicate openly about its work and contribute to transparency and accountability at the University of Waterloo. These reports highlight the concerns students bring forward, the fairness principles that guide the Office’s work, and any systemic issues or recommendations identified through case trends. While the Office reports publicly on patterns and insights, individual student confidentiality is always protected. More information on how the Office safeguards privacy can be found on the Privacy and Confidentiality page.
Annual Reports
The Annual Report offers a year‑to‑year view of the concerns brought to the Office, the themes that emerged, and the issues students navigated during that period. It also outlines notable developments in the Office’s work, including outreach, resources, and shifts in student engagement. The report provides a clear picture of the Office’s activities over the academic year and highlights areas where further attention, clarity, or improvement may support a fairer student experience.
Other Reports
From time to time, the Office may publish focused reports on a single systemic concern or fairness issue that warrants deeper examination outside the annual reporting cycle. These reports are not required under the Memorandum of Understanding but may be developed when a particular pattern, policy question, or emerging issue would benefit from a more detailed review. They offer space for the Office to share insights, contributing factors, and opportunities for improvement related to a specific area of student experience.