Surface Warfare Officer School Unit (SWOSU) Great Lakes has named the new ombudsman for the command May 21.

Jenni DeNicola was appointed by Cmdr. Terrance Patterson, commanding officer of SWOSU Great Lakes as the new ombudsman.

"The SWOSU Great Lakes' ombudsmen is a valuable asset to the command," said Cmdr. Terrance Patterson, commanding officer of SWOSU Great Lakes. "They are crucial in facilitating communication between the command and family members, fostering a better understanding of the needs and viewpoints of the families, and providing information and assistance to family members within the command."

Melanie Reed served as ombudsman for the past year and is currently working hard to ensure a successful turnover. Patterson said Melanie has been a vital asset to the command, working tirelessly to learn her position and support the families. She quickly integrated herself within the command team and took charge of remedying family challenges. We wish her luck as she executes her next permanent change of station move and transitions her family to their next Navy adventure.

"Being the ombudsman for SWOSU Great Lakes was a great experience," said Melanie Reed, outgoing ombudsman for SWOSU Great Lakes. "I loved to volunteer my time back to other families and helping in their needs and assisting them in adjusting to the Great Lakes Area. I am ecstatic for Jenni [DeNicola] to take over the role. I think she'll be very good as ombudsman and she will be a major asset to the command."

Patterson said he selected the right person for the job in naming DeNicola, she has a wealth of knowledge in the human services arena and will be a great addition to the SWOSU Great Lakes team.

"I am very happy to be the new ombudsman," DeNicola said. "I've been involved with Family Readiness Group, including vice president, at three different commands. This is the first time I will be an ombudsman and I am ready to take on this adventure. Melanie has done an awesome job; her shoes will be hard to fill."

The ombudsman program is one of many programs provided by the Fleet and Family Support Program, which enhances Sailor readiness and family preparedness, thereby contributing to mission readiness. The program is committed to promoting self-reliance and resilience, not dependency, and empowers Navy families to meet the unique challenges of the military lifestyle.

For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy.

For more news from Training Support Center, Great Lakes, visit www.navy.mil/.