Student Ombuds Program
The Student Ombuds serve as neutral and confidential* resources and thought partners for students who are considering their options for addressing an issue, especially in situations where there are power and positionality differences. The Ombuds can support students who are experiencing or observing unfair treatment, communication breakdown, tension, or other challenging interpersonal matters, particularly when the other party is in a position of power in relation to the student (e.g., a professor, coach, or supervisor).
Although separate from the University’s Ombudsperson for staff and faculty, the Student Ombuds use similar conflict resolution and restorative justice practices.
Here are just a few examples of the ways Student Ombuds can offer support:
- Hold a safe and supportive conversational space, simply listening and serving as an impartial sounding board
- Provide insight on how to start and manage a challenging conversation with a professor
- Serve as thought partners for students working through an issue with a coach or trainer
- Offer tools on how to approach resolving a conflict with an employment supervisor
- Share information on support resources
- Explain and demystify formal reporting and complaint processes
- Communicate any patterns of concern to university leadership
The Wesleyan Student Ombuds Program was informed and inspired by student voices, and they partner with and are supported by Dr. April Ruiz, Dean for Academic Equity, Inclusion, & Success.
*The Student Ombuds stand with survivors of sexual misconduct, though they do not serve as a confidential resource for these matters. If you need confidential support related to sexual misconduct, please reach out to SHAPE, CAPS, Office of Religious and Spiritual Life.
Connect
The Student Ombuds are available for one-on-one appointments. An appointment calendar link will appear here once Fall 2025 classes are underway.
They will also hold drop-in hours throughout the semester. A Fall 2025 schedule will be posted here once the dates, times, and locations are set.
If you'd like to request a workshop or partnership, or if you have any general questions, please email studentombud@wesleyan.edu. This inbox is not monitored during the summer break.
You can also reach out to Dr. April Ruiz, Associate Vice President and Dean for Equity & Inclusion, who oversees and supports the Student Ombuds program. aruiz01@wesleyan.edu
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CAROLYN CHENG, she/her, ccheng01@wesleyan.edu
Class year: 2028
What are your academic interests? Psychology; Music
What are you involved in at Wes? The Mixolydians (acapella); Hong Kong Student Association (HKSA); Pinoy Club; Asian American Student Collective (AASC)
What is something someone might not know just by looking at you? I enjoy crocheting stuffed animals!
Why are you serving as a Student Ombud? I want to support my peers by providing a space where they can voice their concerns and practice self-advocacy, so that they can thrive at Wesleyan.
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JACEY HENRY, she/her, jahenry@wesleyan.edu
Class year: 2027
What are your academic interests? MB&B; Science and Technology Studies (STS)
What are you involved in at Wes? Wesleyan Period Coalition; Kpop Dance Crew; Black Undergraduate Medical Association (BUMA); WesWell Peer Health Intern
What is something someone might not know just by looking at you? I’m a very picky eater but I am trying to be more open to new foods.
Why are you serving as a Student Ombud? Stemming from my own experiences as an international student, I want to be a resource for my peers to consult on whatever they are struggling with to ensure our success at Wesleyan. I was also inspired by serving in a similar capacity as a peer counselor at my alma mater so I wanted to continue supporting my peers through conflict resolution, academic and financial struggles and more.
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JAMES (JT) THOMAS, he/him, jthomas02@wesleyan.edu
Class year: 2026
What are your academic interests? Philosophy with a minor in African-American studies and a certificate in Social, Cultural, and Critical Theory
What are you involved in at Wes? Men’s Wrestling Team; Teaching Fellow for the National Education Equity Lab; Student-Athletes of Color Leadership Council Representative
What is something someone might not know just by looking at you? I carry around a notebook for drawing and journaling!
Why are you serving as a Student Ombud? Through my tenure at Wesleyan, I’ve seen and experienced firsthand how easy it is for students to feel isolated or unheard, especially those not used to high-pressure environments. I want to be a resource to help my peers navigate challenges with confidence and without fear of alienation.
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SOFIA MARKHAM, she/her, smarkham@wesleyan.edu
Class year: 2027
What are your academic interests? Chemistry and Molecular Biology & Biochemistry (MB&B)
What are you involved in at Wes? Run Club, Women’s Club Soccer, Science Education Club, WesMaSS, McNair Scholars Program
What is something someone might not know just by looking at you? I’m Chilean—my mom is from Chile, and I officially became a citizen two years ago. Before starting at Wesleyan, I took a gap year and worked as a hiking guide in Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia. It was an incredible experience that taught me so much about the region, Chilean culture, and myself!
Why are you serving as a Student Ombud? College is full of firsts—from figuring out your caffeine limit to navigating unfamiliar situations and relationships. It can be overwhelming, and during those moments, what’s helped me most is having someone to talk to—someone who listens without judgment and offers support, perspective, and real options. I’m honored to be that person for others and to offer guidance and care when needed.