MIT Welcomes Marcus Stergio as New Ombudsperson

Marcus Stergio has been appointed as the new ombudsperson for the MIT Ombuds Office, effective August 25, 2023. With over a decade of experience in mediation and conflict management, Stergio previously served as an ombuds at the U.S. Department of Labor. He will work closely with current ombudsperson Judi Segall to support the MIT community in navigating concerns and conflicts.

The MIT Ombuds Office, established in 1980, provides a confidential and independent resource for all community members. It aims to help individuals manage issues related to their experiences at MIT. The office has played a significant role in shaping the field of organizational ombuds, contributing to the development of professional standards and practices.

Stergio expressed enthusiasm about joining MIT, noting the office’s esteemed reputation. “There’s this aura and legend around MIT’s Ombuds Office that is really exciting,” he stated. He emphasized the versatility of the ombuds role, describing how it allows for creative and flexible approaches to conflict resolution. Whether through informal conversations or more structured processes, Stergio aims to tailor support to the specific needs of those seeking assistance.

Prior to his role at MIT, Stergio spent six years at the U.S. Department of Labor, where he established a new ombuds office for the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP). He adhered to the standards set by the International Ombuds Association, providing ombuds services to both external stakeholders and OFCCP employees. His extensive background includes serving in various conflict-management roles for organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the United Nations Population Fund, and major corporations including General Motors and BMW of North America.

From 2013 to 2019, Stergio was a mediator and manager of commercial and corporate programs at the Boston-based dispute resolution firm MWI. He has also taught conflict resolution courses at multiple universities, including MIT, where he noted a remarkable enthusiasm among students and faculty. “There was this eagerness to perfect things that was inspiring and contagious,” he remarked.

In addition to his practical experience, Stergio holds a bachelor’s degree from Northeastern University and a master’s degree in conflict resolution from the University of Massachusetts at Boston. He has contributed to the field as a member of the executive committee of the Coalition of Federal Ombuds since 2022 and co-chair of the American Bar Association’s ombuds day subcommittee. He also serves as an editor for the newsletter of the ABA’s Dispute Resolution Section and is a member of the International Ombuds Association.

Stergio looks forward to leveraging his expertise to build on the legacy of the MIT Ombuds Office, aiming to facilitate constructive conflict management within the community. “I’m honored to be joining such a prestigious institution, especially one with such a rich history in the ombuds field,” he said. His appointment reflects MIT’s ongoing commitment to fostering a supportive environment for all its members.