UMD Names Next Graduate Student Ombuds Officer

Blakely R. Pomietto, University of Maryland assistant president and chief of staff, sent the following email Tuesday to university leadership, faculty and graduate students:

I am pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Wade C. Jacobsen, associate professor and director of graduate studies in the Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice, as the University of Maryland’s next graduate student ombuds officer, effective Jan. 5, 2026.

A University of Maryland faculty member since 2017, Dr. Jacobsen has served as co-director of the undergraduate honors program in criminology and criminal justice, and acting associate director of the Maryland Population Research Center. His research examines how youth behaviors are influenced by their social networks, such as families and peer groups, and their interactions with institutions like schools and the criminal justice system. His work has appeared in such journals as the American Sociological Review, Criminology, Social Forces and Sociology of Education. Dr. Jacobsen also brings a longstanding commitment to community and volunteer service, including work with diverse populations to mediate conflict and individuals with needed supports. This combination of his academic expertise, leadership experience and community engagement makes him well prepared to support our campus community—and especially our graduate students—in this role.

The graduate student ombuds officer plays a vital role in our university community. In this capacity, Dr. Jacobsen will serve as a confidential, impartial and independent resource for graduate students seeking guidance in navigating concerns, conflicts or questions related to their experience at the university. He will listen to concerns, help students identify options, clarify relevant policies and resolve issues informally whenever possible, promoting fairness, respect and clear communication across the institution.

Dr. Jacobsen will join our Ombuds Services team in the Office of the President, collaborating closely with the faculty and staff ombuds officers, the Graduate School and partners across campus. His work will help ensure that students have access to a trusted advisor who can listen carefully, elevate systemic concerns where appropriate and support constructive problem-solving. This is a critical service as we continue to strengthen our culture of belonging, well-being and academic excellence.

I want to thank the members of the search committee for their thoughtful service in helping us to identify our new graduate student ombuds officer. I also extend my sincere appreciation to Dr. Mark Shayman, professor of electrical and computer engineering, for his years of dedicated service in this role, and to Simone Warrick-Bell, Dr. Evelyn Cooper and Dr. Jason Farman for collectively supporting the graduate ombuds function during the transition.

Please join me in welcoming Dr. Wade Jacobsen to this important role. We look forward to the positive impact his leadership will bring to our graduate student community and to the university as a whole. For more information, visit the Ombuds Services website or contact Dr. Jacobsen at grad-ombuds@umd.edu.

Sincerely,