Ángela Arias, UDIT's new University Ombudswoman: "I have always been driven by the commitment to create an increasingly inclusive and respectful environment".

Ángela Arias, the new University Ombudsman of UDIT, University of Design, Innovation and Technology, reviews in this interview the main challenges she faces in this important position, as well as other aspects such as the goals she has set for herself at this stage and the role she plays in an academic institution . 

• What does it mean to you to be the new University Ombudsman at UDIT?

It is a real honour that fills me with motivation, but it is also a great responsibility that I am willing to take on . 

I have been working at UDIT for seven years and I have always been driven by the commitment to create an increasingly inclusive and respectful environment, where every person feels heard, valued and safe. Taking on the role of University Ombudsperson will undoubtedly allow me to continue moving forward on this path, which I am very excited about. 

This appointment also represents a professional recognition that I am very grateful for. 

• Tell us about the role or work of the University Ombudsman. 

My work as University Ombudsman consists mainly of looking after the rights of the entire university community (students, teaching staff and administration and services staff), acting as an independent, impartial figure and always in a discreet manner . 

I could say that my role is to listen, mediate and accompany. I deal with complaints, claims and suggestions related to the functioning of the University, always within the legal and regulatory framework, seeking fair, equitable and respectful solutions for all parties involved . 

The aim is to contribute to a coexistence based on dialogue, trust and continuous improvement. 

• What are the main challenges you face in this new position?

Perhaps the most important challenge is to maintain the open and receptive attitude that characterises me, learning every day from the situations and conflicts that may arise and evolving with them.

In addition, I am given the opportunity to put all my professional and life experience at the service of the university community, with the aim of continuing to contribute to the improvement of coexistence in the institution.

• And what are your goals?

One of my main goals is to bring the University Ombudsman's Office closer to the whole community, to make it known and valued as a safe, accessible and useful space. I want it to be perceived as a place of active listening, mediation and conflict resolution, where people can feel accompanied and respected.

For me, the University is not only a space for academic training, but also a place of coexistence, of personal and collective growth. From this new responsibility, I hope to contribute to strengthening this spirit, acting with independence, impartiality and discretion, at the service of the whole community.

• A message you would like to send to the students?

I invite the student body to see this office as an open, accessible and trustworthy space. My door will always be open to listen, guide and contribute to creating a fairer university committed to continuous improvement in both academic and social aspects.

If at any time you need to contact me, please write to  defensoria@udit.es.