Office of the Ombudsperson

The traditional role of the University Ombudsperson is divided into two separate functions: university withdrawals, and all other ombudsman services including notification of class absences. Dr. Al Menard (Associate Vice President for University Planning and Analysis) works with students who wish to withdraw from the university, and Dr. Jim McConnel (Associate Vice President for Student Life) works with students on all other ombudsman concerns.

Withdrawing from the University

This process addresses undergraduate, graduate, and non-degree seeking students who wish to withdraw from the university during a current semester and/or retroactively withdraw from a previous semester.

The Office of the Registrar will continue to process students who are not returning for a subsequent semester or who wish to withdraw from any of the summer terms.

For assistance with withdrawing from the University please contact Dr. Al Menard or his assistant, Susan Linn at:

Office Location: Wilson Room 113

Mailing Address:
James Madison University
800 South Main Street
MSC 1022
Harrisonburg, VA 22807

Phone: 540-568-6183 or 540-568-6287

Fax: 540-568-2665

Email Dr. Menard at menardaj@jmu.edu
Email Susan Linn at linnsa@jmu.edu

Extended Class Absence

Students should make direct contact with their professors in cases of short-term or routine absences. In situations where the student is incapacitated or experiencing extraordinary circumstances over the course of several days, the Office of the University Ombudsperson will notify faculty on behalf of the student. Such notifications are sent as a convenience to the student. There is no attempt to document the extraordinary circumstances.

For assistance with extended class absence please contact Dr. Jim McConnel at:

Office Location: Taylor 300

Mailing Address:
James Madison University
800 South Main Street
MSC 3534
Harrisonburg, VA 22807

Phone: 540-568-6468

Fax: 540-568-6538

Email Dr. McConnel at mcconnjw@jmu.edu