Office of the Ombuds
A Safe, Confidential, and Neutral Space for Faculty & Staff
LMU’s Office of the Ombuds offers a welcoming, off-the-record resource for faculty and staff to explore concerns, receive support, and foster positive change—without formal processes, judgments, or records.
Meet Johnny Armijo
After a period of active military duty, Johnny is grateful to return to LMU and resume his work as your university ombudsperson.
Johnny's role is to provide a safe, confidential, and neutral space where you can talk through concerns, challenges, or difficult situations. Whether you are experiencing conflict, uncertainty, communication challenges, or simply need a sounding board, he is here to help you explore options and think through next steps.
When you meet with the Ombuds office, conversations are confidential and guided by the core principles of the profession:
- Independence – Ombuds operate outside of formal decision-making structures to remain neutral.
- Impartiality – Ombuds do not take sides; they help people think through situations objectively.
- Informality – The Ombuds office is an off-the-record resource that does not participate in formal investigations.
- Confidentiality – Your privacy is respected, and conversations are kept confidential within the limits of the profession.
Johnny's goal is to provide a judgment-free space where you feel heard, supported, and empowered to make informed decisions about whatever you may be experiencing.
Please feel free to schedule a meeting — Johnny is here to help, listen, and support.
What Is an Ombudsman?
The term “Ombudsman” (pronounced om‑budz‑man) comes from Swedish for “representative.” At LMU, the Ombuds stands for equity, respect, and fair process — not any individual or department. Acting independently, impartially, and confidentially, the Ombuds supports your best path forward.
Meeting with the Ombuds does not initiate formal notice to the University and creates no permanent record — unless there is imminent risk of serious harm or legal requirement.
Why Meet with the Ombuds?
- Talk confidentially about workplace or team concerns
- Explore options without committing to a formal process
- Prepare for difficult conversations
- Receive communication coaching
- Address interpersonal or organizational issues
- Gain new perspective and clarity
Services Offered
- Individual Counseling Sessions
- Facilitated Conversations
- Mediation
- Upward Feedback
- Shuttle Diplomacy
- Resiliency Training
- Conflict Resolution Workshops
- Team-Building Activities
Our Standards
We're guided by the International Ombuds Association ethical framework:
- Independence
- Impartiality
- Confidentiality
- Informality
We Welcome Everyone
The Ombuds Office celebrates diversity and inclusion. We support all LMU faculty and staff—regardless of identity, ability, or background. Interpretation services and accommodations are available upon request.
Email: Johnny.Armijo@lmu.edu
Schedule time: calendly.com/johnny-armijo-lmu
All meetings are virtual, by phone or Zoom.