Deborah Dodge

Having previously served in ombuds positions as well as having held various roles within both student affairs and academic affairs units, Deborah Dodge brings a wealth of experience in conflict resolution, mediated dialoguing, and fostering inclusive environments.  She holds a master’s degree in Higher Education Administration from Vanderbilt University and has earned the Certified Organizational Ombuds Practitioner (CO-OP®) credential through the International Ombuds Association (IOA). Deborah is an active member of the IOA. She co-chairs the Eligibility Committee for Individual Practitioner Certification and her poetry, “Ombservations™ in Three Poems” was recently featured in the Journal of the International Ombuds Association.

Deborah serves the Grinnell College community as a confidential, ombnipartial resource for faculty, staff, students, and other College affiliates, helping to resolve conflicts and navigate challenges that may arise, relative to their working, living, and learning experiences or otherwise engage on campus. As the College Ombudsperson, Dodge provides resources in alignment with the profession's ethical principles of confidentiality, informality, impartiality (her ombnipartiality), and independence.

Dodge’s extensive background in conflict resolution and organizational dynamics includes years of experience working directly with diverse campus populations and a nuanced understanding of unique challenges within higher education. Her collaborative approach focuses on empowering individuals to navigate conflicts with confidence and clarity. Her expertise in fostering inclusive, respectful environments will help reinforce community ties and ensure that all voices are heard and respected as Grinnell continues to build a supportive and open campus culture.