Claudia D'Albini
Claudia D'Albini served as the Program Director for The University of Arizona Ombuds Program. She established and coordinated the program since its implementation in 1992 until her retirement in 2011. As a trained mediator and practicing ombuds she oversaw the UA ombuds selection process education and training mentoring and promoted the values of ombudsing and early conflict resolution throughout campus. Before joining the university her professional background spanned over 20 years as a paralegal where she facilitated settlements and observed many situations that should have been settled amicably at an earlier and less costly stage for the parties. Claudia served on the Board of Directors for the University and College Ombuds Association and the International Ombudsman Association. She chaired and served on numerous committees most notably helping to establish the IOA Mentor Program. She also served on the editorial board of the Journal of IOA. Claudia presented a number of ombuds-related workshops and seminars at regional and national conferences. The California Caucus of College and University Ombuds awarded Claudia with the 2011 Service Excellence Award for her significant support and contributions to the ombuds profession noting that under her leadership the University of Arizona set a standard of excellence for model ombuds programs. While she was honored for her leadership in the profession she was most recognized for her mentorship and generosity to share knowledge and resources with ombuds organizations and universities.