Shannon Lynn Burton

Shannon Lynn Burton serves as University Ombudsperson at Michigan State University and Adjunct Professor of Management at Aquinas College. Her career spans 25+ years in higher education administration with 11+ years specializing in ombuds practices.

Her research focuses on organizational ombuds systems, academic integrity frameworks, and conflict resolution methodologies in educational settings. She examines how ombuds offices function within professional academic associations and contribute to institutional trust through neutral mediation.

Her recent publications analyze the establishment of ombuds offices in research associations and campus conflict resolution systems, emphasizing neutrality, confidentiality, and compliance with International Ombuds Association standards.

Professional leadership includes:

• Co-chair of IOA Research and Assessment Committee
• Editor of Journal of IOA
• Response Working Group Representative to National Academies
• Creator of AERA's ombuds program

She actively mentors new ombuds professionals and consults on higher education administration, student development theory, and trauma-informed conflict resolution practices while teaching ethics and group dynamics courses.