A longtime professor and academic leader in the Medical School has been appointed as a University of Michigan faculty ombuds under the Office of the Provost.

Mary X. O’Riordan, Frederick C. Neidhardt Collegiate Professor of Microbiology & Immunology, began the part-time, three-year appointment July 1, succeeding Michèle Hannoosh, professor of French in LSA, who stepped down after seven years of service in the role.

O’Riordan joins Stephanie D. Preston, professor of psychology in LSA, as one of two university-level faculty ombuds serving the Ann Arbor campus.

The Office of the University Faculty Ombuds offers a confidential, impartial, informal and independent resource for faculty members seeking information and assistance, with a focus on resolving academic and administrative concerns and disputes. 

University faculty ombuds help colleagues explore options, launch informal inquiries, offer referrals, and facilitate fair and timely solutions. They may also recommend improvements to policies or procedures that contribute to conflict.

“I am energized by and grateful for the opportunity to support our faculty by collaborative problem-solving and navigation through our complex university ecosystem,” O’Riordan said.

Provost Laurie McCauley praised Hannoosh for her years of dedicated service and welcomed O’Riordan’s appointment.

“Michèle Hannoosh brought great clarity, insight and care to her work as ombuds, and we are grateful for her leadership,” McCauley said. “Professor O’Riordan brings a deep understanding of the university, a thoughtful approach to problem-solving, and a clear commitment to fostering collegiality and professional integrity. Her combination of wisdom and warmth makes her exceptionally well-suited to this important role.”

O’Riordan joined U-M in 2003 as an assistant professor and became an associate professor in 2010 and a full professor in 2017. She has served as associate dean for graduate and postdoctoral studies in the Medical School, chair of the Microbiology & Immunology Ph.D. program, and on numerous university-wide committees and initiatives. 

In her previous administrative role, she oversaw 14 doctoral programs and supported more than 1,200 trainees — an experience she credits with sharpening her skills in mediation and faculty support.

An internationally recognized scientist, O’Riordan’s research focuses on microbial pathogenesis and host response. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Microbiology and the 2025 recipient of U-M’s Rackham Distinguished Graduate Mentor Award.

The Ann Arbor campus maintains two university-level faculty ombuds who serve all schools and colleges. In addition, many schools and colleges appoint their own unit-level ombuds to assist with local concerns.