Loyola Marymount University is taking a bold and compassionate step toward strengthening its culture of collaboration and care by establishing its first full-time Ombuds Office for faculty and staff. This new initiative places conflict resolution, not as something to fear but as a powerful tool for understanding, growth, and connection across the LMU community.
At the center of this effort is Johnny Armijo, a nationally recognized leader in conflict resolution, with more than 30 years of military service in the U.S. Navy and Air Force. A proud graduate of Southern Methodist University, Armijo holds a master’s degree in dispute resolution and conflict management and currently serves as a senior master sergeant in the U.S. Air Force Reserve. His decades of experience resolving workplace challenges — both on the battlefield and in the classroom — are now being brought to LMU to support faculty and staff in navigating complex situations with courage and compassion.
“My work is grounded in the belief that conflict, when approached thoughtfully and respectfully, is an opportunity — not a threat,” said Armijo. “We can use conflict to build understanding, restore trust, and create more connected, resilient teams. That’s what I hope to offer at LMU.”
Armijo comes to LMU from the U.S. Department of State, where he served as an ombudsperson in Washington, D.C. He also established and led ombuds programs at the University of Northern Colorado and California State University, Monterey Bay, giving him deep expertise in launching impactful, ethics-based conflict resolution services in higher education. Now, at LMU, he said he is excited to lay the foundation for a program that aligns with the university’s Jesuit mission and commitment to cura personalis — care for the whole person.
The LMU Ombuds Office will provide a confidential, independent, and informal space where faculty and staff can safely raise concerns, explore options, and find paths forward. From early conflict coaching to facilitated conversations and resilience workshops, the office is designed to be a trusted resource for navigating difficult situations while promoting dignity, equity, and healing.
“Conflict doesn’t have to be destructive — it can be transformative,” said Armijo. “At LMU, I’m not just here to help resolve problems. I’m here to listen deeply, build relationships, and offer tools that empower people to address challenges with authenticity and confidence.”
As part of his vision, Armijo will also offer trainings on effective communication, resilience, and problem-solving, drawing from his certification as a master resilience trainer and his experience mentoring service members and university leaders alike. His approachable style and flexible availability — including virtual meetings, phone calls, in-person sessions, and even walk-and-talk conversations — make him accessible to the entire LMU community.
“Being part of LMU feels like a calling,” Armijo said. “This is a university that believes in the transformative power of education, reflection, and service. I’m honored to be part of a team that values connection, justice, and care — and I’m excited to help build a future where conflict is not something we avoid, but something we grow from together.”
Armijo said he intends to have LMU’s Ombuds Office represent not just a new service — but a new way of approaching conflict: one rooted in courage, compassion, and community.