Geoffrey Adelsberg appointed associate ombuds
Geoffrey Adelsberg, a restorative justice scholar practitioner and former associate professor of philosophy at Edgewood College, has been named associate ombuds at Virginia Tech.
Adelsberg began his role in the University Ombuds Office in early January, serving as a key resource for conflict resolution, mediation, and fostering healthy university culture.
The University Ombuds Office offers conflict resolution services and problem-solving support to the Virginia Tech community. Adhering to a code of ethics and standards of practice set by the International Ombuds Association, the office can be an informal resource for working through challenges that is independent, impartial, and confidential.
“I am beyond delighted to welcome Geoffrey to Virginia Tech,” said Reese Ramos, director of the University Ombuds Office. “Virginia Tech is committed to elevating our international prominence and being a force for good, and that vision can only be achieved when individuals and teams can manage conflict effectively. Geoffrey’s extensive experience in conflict mediation, empathetic communication, and restorative practices will support our university’s commitment to fostering a thriving community for all members.”
Adelsberg brings over a decade of experience in teaching, advising, and conflict resolution. While at Edgewood College, he founded the Critical Friends Program, which provided faculty and staff with one-on-one coaching to address complex departmental and classroom challenges. As a professor and advisor, he also assisted students facing issues such as academic honesty, accessibility, financial difficulties, and interpersonal conflicts.
His expertise includes nonviolent communication, restorative circles, and systematic conflict analysis. Adelsberg is a member of the International Ombuds Association and the Center for Nonviolent Communication. His professional approach emphasizes active listening, fostering understanding, and empowering individuals to resolve conflicts constructively.
Adelsberg earned his Ph.D. in philosophy from Vanderbilt University, where his dissertation explored restorative justice in relation to victims’ rights in death penalty-eligible cases.
In his free time, he enjoys cooking, learning new languages, exploring the arts, and spending time outdoors. Originally from the suburbs of New York City, he now lives in Southwest Roanoke with his partner, Faith, along with many books and plants.