The NIU Ombudsman is being reviewed, and the Ombudsman Review Committee wants input from students, faculty and staff before deciding to keep him for another term.

The purpose of the ombudsman’s office is to help students with problems they have with the university, including problems with grade appeals, parking tickets, the Bursar’s Office, employment at NIU, residence halls and roommates.

NIU Ombudsman Bertrand Simpson is being reviewed because he wants to hold the position for another term, said John De Lillo, committee member. Ombudsmen are reviewed at the end of their first three-year term when they want to serve another term, he said.

Written comments submitted to the committee do not have to follow any prescribed format and can contain “whatever kind of input” people would like to give about Simpson’s performance at NIU, De Lillo said.

The hearings will only be open to people testifying because personnel matters will be discussed, De Lillo said. Signing up in advance to testify is preferred but not required.

Since coming to NIU in 1987, Simpson has given lectures on racism, moderated open forums on gay rights and acted as director of the NIU Discrimination Hotline.

Last semester, Simpson became the faculty advisor for Iota Phi Theta, a social service organization for minorities.

Oral testimony can be given at two closed hearings scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 6 from 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. and Wednesday, Feb. 7 from 9:30 to 11:00 p.m. in room 303 of the Holmes Student Center. Those wishing to testify should contact Ken Beasley, assistant to the president, at 753-1122.