George E. Cole was appointed as the Ombudsman in September 2011. His mandate includes providing an independent, impartial and confidential process through which students may pursue the resolution of any college‐related concern. He is also expected to provide information to students on Algonquin College policies and procedures, the rights and responsibilities of students in College situations, and offer advice on where and to whom complaints and inquiries are to be appropriately directed. Additionally, he is a Notary Public and is therefore able to attend to the Declaration & Affidavits requirements of students, faculty and staff at Algonquin College.

Having studied and worked internationally, George brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in conflict resolution; processes and systems of alternative dispute resolution; student services; cultural fluency; and a passion for fairness, equity, diversity, restorative justice, and human rights.

He has worked for many years in higher education as an administrator and faculty member. He offers seminars and training in conflict management; conducts mediations, facilitations and restorative justice conferences; and undertakes conflict assessment and systems design.

In his spare time, George volunteers as a “circle keeper” with Peacebuilders International (Canada), a non-profit organization that uses restorative justice practices as a court diversion program within the judicial system. He is also affiliated with the International Institute of Restorative Practices (IIRP), and holds membership in the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Institute of Canada, Association of Colleges and University Ombudspersons (ACCUO), International Ombudsman Association (IOA), and the Canadian Association of College and University Student Services (CACUSS).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

You can contact George by:

Email: ombuds@algonquincollege.com
Phone (confidential line): (613) 727 4723 Ext. 5306
Fax (confidential line): (613) 727 7708

Mail:

Office of the Ombudsman
Algonquin College
1385 Woodroffe Avenue (Room C145)
Ottawa, ON, Canada
K2G 1V8

George’s office is located in the Ottawa campus (Room C145). His office hours are Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. & 1:00 – 4:30 p.m. (excluding statutory holidays) or by appointment after-hours, if necessary. Walk-ins are welcome, however, the Ombudsman may not be able to see or speak with you if he is in a meeting with someone. It is suggested that you phone or email in advance to schedule an appointment. He makes periodic visits to the Perth and Pembroke campuses.