Does speaking to someone in the Office of Ombuds Services count as formal notice to the University?

No. By only telling a staff member in the Office of Ombuds Services about your situation, you have not formally notified any University official of your conflict, dispute or complaint. In order for the University to take official action to remedy your conflict, dispute, or complaint, you must share it with someone who represents the University. The staff members in the Office of Ombuds Services do not represent the University and therefore cannot receive formal complaints.

Meeting with an ombudsperson does not affect your ability to pursue formal complaints. The Ombuds can help you find the appropriate person to speak to in order to request that the University take some action, if that is what you want. Important rights may be affected by the actual date when formal action is initiated and/or when CSUSB is informed of allegedly wrongful behavior, and in some situations, you may wish to consult with an attorney regarding your rights.