With the exception of plenary sessions, all conference sessions will run in parallel.
You will find elaborated descriptions of each session below the programme. Click on the session number to go directly to the description.
The programme is still subject to change (Last update: 26 February).
Day 1: Wednesday 10 June 2026
| time | session | session |
|---|---|---|
| [Aula A] | [Aula B] | |
| 08.30 | Registration and poster installation (ground floor of building B8) | |
| 09.00 – 09.20 | Welcome to Kraków by: Jean Grier (President, ENOHE) AGH Authorities | |
| 09.20 – 09.50 | 10th Anniversary of AGH Student Ombudsperson … | |
| 09.50 – 10.00 | The Polish HE ombuds Network, ASBiR | |
| 10.00 – 11.00 | Plenary Academic ombudspersons at Polish universities – the pinacle of evolution or an impulse for revolution? dr Anna Cybulko (the 1st Polish Academic Ombuds) A story about the changing approach to equality, safety and well-being of the academic community over the last fifteen years in Polish academia. | |
| 11.00 | Coffee and networking | |
| 11.30 – 12.10 | Session 1 Newcomers’ session Grier, Meiser & Board members | Session 2 The use of AI in Ombud´s Offices in the Universities of Comunidad de Madrid (Spain) Gómez Sánchez, Rodríguez & Sevillano |
| 12.15 – 12.55 | Session 3 Practising Intercultural Competence and Ethical Judgement as an Ombuds with De Bono’s Six Thinking Hats in an AI-Infused World Lovrits & Epperson | Session 4 Challenges and Opportunities of Artificial Intelligence for University Ombudsman Offices: The Experience of Andalusian Universities Ombuds Network (REDUAN, Spain) Lomas Campos, Aguado Casas & Farias Batlle |
| 12.55 – 13.45 | Lunch and networking | |
| 13.45 – 14.25 | Plenary Knowing ENOHE: developments and opportunities, meet the committees, get published with ENOHE, meet the Board candidates! | |
| 14.30 – 15.10 | Session 5 What Students Tell Us About AI: Trust, Guardrails, and Ombuds Skills in Higher Education Brant | Session 6 Ethical problems brought by the digital transition in students Interactions in academy Costa |
| 15.15 – 15.55 | Session 7 Navigating Harassment, Discrimination, and Gender-Based Violence: Collaborative Good Practices for Student Ombuds through Case Work and Role-Play Bedel, Seethaler & Rothwangl | Session 8 How Universities Can Align Ombuds Functions with AI Governance under the EU AI Act Sturua, Lietze & Graham |
| 16.00 – 16.40 | Plenary Poster session Walk to the main building (building A0) Gather at the first poster you want to know more about for a five-minute presentation followed by questions and discussion, then move on to other posters for further presentations | |
| (Free time) | ||
| 18.00 – 22.00 | Social event Klub Studio (Witolda Budryka Street, 4) Party and tour of the AGH Brewery |
Day 2: Thursday 11 June 2026
| time | session | session |
|---|---|---|
| [Aula A] | [Aula B] | |
| 09.00 – 9.40 | Plenary “Technology is an answer, but what was the question?” dr hab. inż. Joanna Jaworek-Korjakowska (Professor at AGH, Director of the Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence and Deputy Head of the Department of Automation and Robotics at AGH University of Science and Technology in Krakow) | |
| 09.45 – 10.15 | Session 9 Artificial Intelligence and the Human Touch. How can AI augment the Ombud’s services Parrella | Session 10 When Assistance Is Not Neutral: AI Hidden Bias and Implications for Ombuds Practice Gapska & Halama |
| 10.15 – 10.40 | Coffee and networking | |
| 10.40 – 11.20 | Plenary ENOHE and the Certificate Programme (CP) “Managing Conflict and Effective Dispute Resolution in Higher Education” Dr Elke Welp-Park (Krems University) and Dr Anna-Katharina Rothwangl (Head of Ombudsstelle für Studierende, Austria) | |
| 11.30 – 13.00 | ENOHE elections and General Assembly | |
| 13.00 – 13.50 | Lunch and networking | |
| 13.50 – 14.30 | Session 11 GenZ, AI and the Work of Ombuds – Dealing with New Scenarios and New Technologies Meiser | Session 12 Meaningful, Memorable, Messy: Sharing our Ombuds Insights Hertlein |
| 14.35 – 15.15 | Session 13 Putting AI in a position to succeed: creating frameworks for insight generation Hare | Session 14 The University of Alberta Task Force on the Use of AI in Teaching, Research and Learning: An Ombuds’ Perspective Sharpe |
| 15.20 – 16.00 | Session 15 Our Ombuds Top Open Problems: Persistent Challenges in a Maturing Profession Hertlein | Session 16 When Complaints Sound Like AI: Recognizing and Handling AI-Influenced Submissions Rothwangl & Bedel |
| (Free time) | ||
| 17.20 | Gathering for Gala Dinner organised transport (spouses welcome at additional cost – must be pre-booked) ATTENTION: Gathering at AGH Main Gate (Reymonta Street, 7) | |
| 18.00 | Visit followed by dinner |
Day 3: Friday 12 June 2026
| time | session | session |
|---|---|---|
| [Aula A] | [Aula B] | |
| 09.30 – 10.20 | Plenary “Machines of Equality – Doing GenAI for Equality at the University” dr Katarzyna Cieślak, Faculty of Humanities at AGH, Equality Commision at AGH mgr Jan Waligórski, Faculty of Humanities at AGH, Equality Commision at AGH | |
| 10.20-10.50 | Coffee and networking | |
| 10.50-11.30 | Session 17 Blow your own trumpet: developments amongst members Grier | Session 18 Students with special needs: how to address their growth in number and diversity? Viegas, Vasconcelos, Rodrigues & Tobar |
| 11.35-12.15 | Session 19 Intervision in Action: A Collegial Space to Pause, Reflect, and Unburden Hertlein | Session 20 How far can (or should) the ombuds go in addressing cases of sexual harassemnt, discrimination, and gender-based violence? Molina Medina & Seethaler |
| 12.20-13.00 | Session 21 Let’s play EQUNI – Defeat the Monster of Discrimination Kopańska & Jarczyńska | Session 22 University Wellbeing: Mental Health Promotion, Conflict Management, and AI in Ombuds Practice Armstrong & Epperson |
| 13.00-13.50 | Lunch and networking | |
| 13.50-14.30 | Session 23 Integrating AI into Ombuds Practice: Opportunities, Risks, and Skills for the Future Vasconcelos & Batista | Session 24 Building Trust, Visibility and Accountability: Cross-Border Collaboration of Academic Ombudspersons in Central Europe Šotola, Šimon, Cybulko & Matušíková |
| 14.35-15.15 | Session 25 Ombuds Work in the Mid-2020s: A Tour d’Horizon from National Networks on Structures, Practices, and Emerging Trends Leidenfrost, Antonin-Malanikova, Rothwangl & Epperson | Session 26 AI as Complexity Scaffold: Beyond Binary Thinking in Ombuds Practice Graham |
| 15.15 | Short break | |
| 15.30-16.00 | Plenary Farewell | |
| 17.00 | Social event Visiting City Center (in English) Gathering at Adam Mickiewicz Monument, Main Market |
Session descriptions:
| Session | 1 Newcomers’ session |
| Speaker(s) | Jean Grier, Ursula Meiser and Board members |
| Abstract | Are you new to ENOHE, new-ish to the ombuds role, or attending your first conference? Come along to this session, hosted by the President and Board members, for a warm welcome and an introduction to the ENOHE family! |
| Session | 2 The use of AI in Ombud´s Offices in the Universities of Comunidad de Madrid (Spain) |
| Speaker(s) | María Elena Gómez Sánchez (Spain) Ángel Rodríguez Sevillano (Spain) |
| Abstract | This proposal presents an overview of the use of AI tools in Ombuds Offices in (the) Comunidad de Madrid (Spain), and how that use relates to Ombuds skills in the Higher Education context. With this purpose, a survey asking University Ombuds to reflect on their practices regarding this issue was created, and in our presentation we will be sharing its most relevant aspects, hoping to share some light on aspects that deal with the very core of the Ombud´s role and skills, while acknowledging the importance of AI tools in everyday life. |
| Session | 3 Practising Intercultural Competence and Ethical Judgement as an Ombuds with De Bono’s Six Thinking Hats in an AI-Infused World |
| Speaker(s) | Veronika Lovrits (Luxembourg) Brent Epperson (Luxembourg) |
| Abstract | Focusing on people in the world of technology raises ethical questions. When is the use of AI ethically acceptable in ombuds practice, if at all? The session invites participants to explore AI use in relation to their personal and professional identity and their positioning within the cultural matrix of their institution. Drawing on the transversality of intercultural skills and the Six Thinking Hats method, participants will engage in critical thinking to uncover assumptions behind their prompts and expectations of AI. They will evaluate the ethical admissibility of various forms of AI-assisted exchanges across the diverse contexts of their daily practice. |
| Session | 4 Challenges and Opportunities of Artificial Intelligence for University Ombudsman Offices: The Experience of Andalusian Universities Ombuds Network (REDUAN, Spain) |
| Speaker(s) | María de las Mercedes Lomas Campos (Spain) Juan Luis Aguado Casas (Spain) Pedro Farias Batlle (Spain) |
| Abstract | Several REDUAN meetings have focused on the implications of AI use in universities, presenting cases handled by Ombuds Offices and defining strategies that enable these offices to address emerging challenges while leveraging opportunities to protect rights and promote good practices. REDUAN is using a mixed methodology: Round-table discussions featuring experts, followed by an open debate; a training workshop focused on the analysis of cases concerning claims related to the use of generative AI in academic and research work, using a role-playing methodology and a focus group dedicated to the collaborative design of strategic guidelines for Andalusian University Ombuds Offices. |
| Session | 5 What Students Tell Us About AI: Trust, Guardrails, and Ombuds Skills in Higher Education |
| Speaker(s) | Tracey Brant (United States of America) |
| Abstract | As AI tools increasingly shape students’ learning experiences, institutions face new questions about trust, voice, and responsibility. Using a recent study of an AI-supported learning tool as a case, this session applies Ombuds skills—listening, neutrality, and systems awareness—to examine how students experience institutional guardrails around AI. Rather than focusing on technology itself, the discussion asks what questions institutions may not yet be hearing: where trust is earned, where concerns remain unspoken, and how power and vulnerability shift when AI becomes an institutional voice. Participants will explore how Ombuds practice can inform governance of AI in higher education. |
| Session | 6 Ethical problems brought by the digital transition in students Interactions in academy |
| Speaker(s) | Carlos Costa (Portugal) |
| Abstract | The digital transition including GenAI, brings a set of new ethical concerns in the interactions among students and teachers and administration bodies, that necessarily will involve ombuds. These concerns are related with privacy and data protection, disinformation and manipulation, on-line intimidation and harassment, mental health and technology dependency. |
| Session | 7 Navigating Harassment, Discrimination, and Gender-Based Violence: Collaborative Good Practices for Student Ombuds through Case Work and Role-Play |
| Speaker(s) | Betül Bedel (Austria) Markus Seethaler (Austria) Anna-Katharina Rothwangl (Austria) |
| Abstract | When approached regarding harassment, discrimination, or gender-based violence, ombudspeople face significant challenges. While emotional understanding and personal skills are crucial, many ombuds are not trained in these areas. Additionally, the legal complexities involved often prevent them from providing the clear, decisive answers sought by those affected. Our aim is to collaborate interactively with the audience to identify good practices for student ombuds. We plan to present real-life case scenarios and conduct role-plays to explore potential responses. Together, we will analyze these interactions to determine effective strategies and areas needing improvement. |
| Session | 8 How Universities Can Align Ombuds Functions with AI Governance under the EU AI Act |
| Speaker(s) | Nata Sturua (Austria,) Stefanie Lietze (Austria, Germany) Diedrick Graham (Austria, USA) |
| Abstract | Universities are increasingly experimenting with AI tools in student-facing services, including conflict support, counselling, and mediation-like assistance. This session explores how Ombuds Offices can integrate AI without undermining core ombuds principles such as confidentiality, impartiality, voluntariness, and trust. Using the SAFE Dialogue Coach as a primary case study, the session examines how methodology-driven AI can offer benefits while mitigating risks. We explore student usage patterns and regulatory implications under the EU AI Act, paying particular attention to human oversight, data protection, and the university’s role as an AI deployer |
| Session | 9 Artificial Intelligence and the Human Touch. How can AI augment the Ombud’s services |
| Speaker(s) | Franco Parrella (Australia) |
| Abstract | The newly established Adelaide University ‘opened its doors’ in January 2026. There is great opportunity for a new university to explore how the work of an Ombud may be augmented by emerging technologies. Topics canvassed will include, how to best utilize emerging technologies such as AI in complaints assessment, identification of procedural error(s) and assistance with dispute resolution approaches. To what extent can AI help ‘persuade’ university leaders to reassess decisions themselves or decision-making approaches, or does this still require the ‘human touch’? If so, what are the human aspects that AI may not have the answers to? Yet! |
| Session | 10 When Assistance Is Not Neutral: AI Hidden Bias and Implications for Ombuds Practice |
| Speaker(s) | Dominika Gapska (Poland) Marzena Halama (Poland) |
| Abstract | AI tools, including Large Language Models, are increasingly used to support institutional communication. Research (ex. Glickman&Sharot 2025) shows these systems can reproduce hidden biases embedded in training data, affecting outputs even in assistive roles. This session examines how AI hidden bias may influence ombuds communication and affect fairness, neutrality, and institutional trustworthiness. Through discussion, delegates will explore bias mechanisms relevant to ombuds practice and identify practical safeguards, including human-in-the-loop oversight, transparency, and bias-aware communication strategies to maintain ethical and equitable institutional processes. |
| Session | 11 GenZ, AI and the Work of Ombuds – Dealing with New Scenarios and New Technologies |
| Speaker(s) | Ursula Meiser (Germany) |
| Abstract | Recent social psychology studies have revealed that young people use AI for counselling, asking ChatGPT what to do or how to respond in certain situations. The presentation will lay a foundation for a group discussion by presenting the central findings of recent studies on AI use and its implications for health and social behaviour. By looking into youth studies in Germany we can better understand the goals, needs and values of our new student generations. The main question to be discussed is: Will our work have to change to support students who ask AI instead of counselling offices for help? |
| Session | 12 Meaningful, Memorable, Messy: Sharing our Ombuds Insights |
| Speaker(s) | Wolf Hertlein (Germany) |
| Abstract | What are the three most important insights and experiences you have gained as an ombuds at your university that you would like to share with your colleagues? They may be meaningful unusual, memorable, profound, surprising, or messy; they may stem from your own mistakes or painful experiences, or have grown out of many years of practice—every contribution is welcome! In this workshop, we aim to collect a potpourri of insights and share and discuss them together. As a participant you are welcome to reflect in advance on which insights and experiences you would like to contribute. I am very curious! |
| Session | 13 Putting AI in a position to succeed: creating frameworks for insight generation |
| Speaker(s) | James Hare (United Kingdom (England and Wales)) |
| Abstract | Learning from complaints is a key strategic objective for the OIA. Much of this work involves consideration of themes in casework to generate insight, for both internal and external use. The use of AI can support this process, freeing up time for more targeted and impactful analysis. However, without effective systems in place, facilitating the use of AI in this space can be challenging. In this session delegates will hear about the steps taken at the OIA to ensure successful use of AI in this space, the insight that is generated as a result, and how this can be scaled. |
| Session | 14 The University of Alberta Task Force on the Use of AI in Teaching, Research and Learning: An Ombuds’ Perspective |
| Speaker(s) | Natalie Sharpe (Canada) |
| Abstract | In 2023, the University of Alberta conducted a Task force on Artificial Intelligence and the Learning Environment to address the impact of Artificial Intelligence on education. With a focus on ethics, academic integrity, teaching and research, it provided many recommendations. The Task Force was tied to the building of a comprehensive University Framework for Responsible Use of AI. This session examines how the task force engaged the University community, who it comprised, what it recommended, and its impact on responsible use of AI over the past 3 years. |
| Session | 15 Our Ombuds Top Open Problems: Persistent Challenges in a Maturing Profession |
| Speaker(s) | Wolf Hertlein (Germany) |
| Abstract | As ombudspersons at universities, we regularly encounter structural problems in our work that are only partially resolved—or not resolved at all. Examples include Artificial Intelligence as both a challenge and an opportunity for our work, increasing student diversity with its associated demands, and unresolved questions of resources for and organizational integration of our offices. In this interactive workshop, the aim is not to solve these issues, but to collect and prioritize them in order to take stock and gain an overview: What are the general overall challenges of our profession? Participants are invited to reflect in advance on their most |
| Session | 16 When Complaints Sound Like AI: Recognizing and Handling AI-Influenced Submissions |
| Speaker(s) | Anna-Katharina Rothwangl (Austria) Betül Bedel (Austria) |
| Abstract | We are increasingly receiving highly ornate requests, often citing lengthy and partially outdated legal bases. Their structure and language strongly suggest AI-generated content. This session explores how ombuds can recognize such texts, which indicators are most reliable, and how to respond appropriately to the concerns they raise without dismissing potential underlying issues. Using real anonymized examples, we will share our experiences, discuss practical strategies for assessment and communication, and invite participants to contribute their approaches, tools, and standards for handling AI-influenced submissions. |
| Session | 17 Blow your own trumpet: developments amongst members |
| Speaker(s) | Jean Grier (UK) |
| Abstract | We learn so much from each other. You may not have felt confident about offering a whole conference session, but this is your opportunity to tell us about developments or activities in your area. In five minutes (with or without a slide show) why not share with us some recent achievements? Networking with another institution? Revising a policy? Reaching out to a student union? Offering or receiving useful training? Undertaking ombuds-related research? Speak to Ursula or Jean during the conference and we’ll give you the stage to blow your own trumpet! Or just turn up – buskers always welcome! |
| Session | 18 Students with special needs: how to address their growth in number and diversity? |
| Speaker(s) | Clara Viegas (Portugal) Rosa Vasconcelos (Portugal) Isilda Rodrigues (Portugal) Ana Dorotea Tobar (Portugal) |
| Abstract | The number and diversity of students with special needs seeking individualized learning paths tailored to their circumstances has increased almost exponentially in recent years. Although higher education policies promote inclusion and establish goals to support these students in pursuing professional qualifications and social integration, significant challenges remain. A key question persists: How effectively are Higher Education Institutions preparing to meet these growing demands and to provide the conditions necessary for these students to progress and succeed? Ombuds from Portugal and Spain have highlighted several concerns, particularly regarding insufficient teacher training in inclusive pedagogical practices and limited access to psychological support. |
| Session | 19 Intervision in Action: A Collegial Space to Pause, Reflect, and Unburden |
| Speaker(s) | Wolf Hertlein (Germany) |
| Abstract | Working as an ombuds often means working in solitude, while dealing with complex, sensitive, and sometimes demanding situations. This can make it difficult to reflect on one’s own practice and to share the weight of challenging cases.In this workshop, we will introduce the peer consultation method of intervision and try it out together with the participants. Intervision is a self-organised, peer-based consultation method for multi-perspective reflection on professional practice. It follows a phased process and is conducted within a group of colleagues. It has been offered to ENOHE members for several years. Please bring your own cases and topics! |
| Session | 20 How far can (or should) the ombuds go in addressing cases of sexual harassemnt, discrimination, and gender-based violence? |
| Speaker(s) | Francisca Molina Medina (Chile) Markus Seethaler (Austria) |
| Abstract | Cases of (sexual) harassment, discrimination, or gender-based violence are among the most challenging for ombuds due to their complexity and legal implications. Affected individuals require trauma-informed guidance that balances emotional support with legal adherence, managing their expectations. However, the student ombuds’ role in these situations remains unclear: should they provide information, guidance, and a listening ear, or adopt a more proactive stance? We explore this by comparing the Chilean and Austrian approaches, which differ notably yet share crucial commonalities by focusing on whether there is space for ombuds in these cases and, if so, how this role should be defined. |
| Session | 21 Let’s play EQUNI – Defeat the Monster of Discrimination |
| Speaker(s) | Justyna Kopańska (Poland) Małgorzata Jarczyńska (Poland) |
| Abstract | During this interactive workshop, participants will explore discriminatory situations and learn effective responses. They will play EQUNI – a board game developed under the Erasmus+ project led by Lodz University of Technology – to better understand emotions and needs, with a focus on empathy. Role-playing exercises will allow participants to experience different perspectives: as someone discriminating, someone affected, or a witness. The workshop aims to strengthen emotional intelligence and deepen understanding of discrimination mechanisms. |
| Session | 22 University Wellbeing: Mental Health Promotion, Conflict Management, and AI in Ombuds Practice |
| Speaker(s) | Laura Armstrong (Canada) Brent Epperson (Canada / Luxembourg) |
| Abstract | Post-pandemic, self-reported poor mental health has risen to approximately 30%, with corresponding increases in stress and conflict across university campuses. Ombuds offices are increasingly positioned at the intersection of well-being, conflict, power, and institutional complexity. This workshop provides ombuds with a practical template for delivering campus-based well-being and conflict management workshops. The session also demonstrates how artificial intelligence can be ethically integrated into this work, including creating AI prompts that staff and students can use to manage everyday conflicts, conducting perspective-taking role-plays, providing emotional literacy support, and performing pattern recognition without identifying individuals, while preserving confidentiality, impartiality, and human-centred decision-making. |
| Session | 23 Integrating AI into Ombuds Practice: Opportunities, Risks, and Skills for the Future |
| Speaker(s) | Rosa Maria Vasconcelos (Portugal) Berta Batista (Portugal) |
| Abstract | This presentation examines how artificial intelligence can influence and support the work of academic ombuds. It will highlight practical applications such as data analysis for early conflict detection, AI-driven communication tools, and ethical considerations. The session will provide insights into the skills ombuds professionals need to integrate technology effectively while maintaining trust and neutrality. Participants will gain a clear understanding of opportunities and risks associated with AI in ombuds practice. |
| Session | 24 Building Trust, Visibility and Accountability: Cross-Border Collaboration of Academic Ombudspersons in Central Europe |
| Speaker(s) | Jaroslav Šotola (Czech Republic) Petr Šimon (Czech Republic) Anna Cybulko (Poland) Ildikó Matušíková (Poland) |
| Abstract | Academic ombudspersons are an increasingly important yet still fragile part of university governance in Central Europe. This session introduces the V4 OmbudsLink project, a cross-border initiative connecting academic ombudspersons and trusted persons from Czechia, Poland and Slovakia, supported by the International Visegrad Fund. Drawing on collaborative work in three thematic working groups, the session explores three key challenges of ombuds practice addressed within the project: supporting newcomers to the role, strengthening visibility and accessibility of ombuds services, and enhancing accountability while preserving confidentiality. The panel combines short inputs with discussion, offering practical insights and transferable lessons for higher education institutions |
| Session | 25 Ombuds Work in the Mid-2020s: A Tour d’Horizon from National Networks on Structures, Practices, and Emerging Trends |
| Speaker(s) | Josef Leidenfrost (Austria) Michaela Antonin-Malanikova (Czech Republic) Anna-Katharina Rothwangl (Austria) Brent Epperson (Austria) |
| Abstract | As a round table session this will bring short statement from representatives of national ombuds networks which are indeed playing an important role in professional exchange, mutual learning, and standard setting. ENOHE brings together ombudspersons from across Europe and beyond, with the core aims to facilitate the comparison of working methods and the exchange of everyday practices (within the International Relations Committee). Speakers will refer to their networks and its activities in the context of digitalization, on structures, practices and emerging trends. |
| Session | 26 AI as Complexity Scaffold: Beyond Binary Thinking in Ombuds Practice |
| Speaker(s) | Diedrick Graham (USA/Austria) |
| Abstract | Ombuds practitioners navigate “charged conversations” where emotional intensity reduces complex situations into false binaries—victims/perpetrators, allies/threats, justice/cover-ups. Drawing on Adam Grant’s book “Think Again”, this session demonstrates how AI can serve as a complexity scaffold, helping practitioners and parties maintain nuanced thinking under pressure. Using the SAFE Dialogue Coach platform and twenty years of ombuds experience, we show how AI provides real-time cognitive support, recognizes cultural patterns in binary thinking, and guides parties through structured reflection without replacing human judgment or compromising ethical boundaries. |