Special Plenary: Master Mediators: What Would You Do?

We often say that mediation is an artform, rather than a science. Users of mediation services often shrug at that notion. This panel will be asked to tackle difficult and challenging mediation situations, and you will get to hear these Master Mediators each answer what their personal approach would be to each situation. Hearing these […]

Closing Plenary: The Inspiration Intervention

Mediators utilize various interventions to coach parties from no to yes. Most of us listen, some of us reality test, others coach, and a few cajole.This plenary session explores the use of an arguably under-articulated mediator tool: inspiration. How do we inspire the parties as an impasse breaking technique? How does sparking insight settle cases?

Restorative Justice to Peer Mediation: Building Bridges between Community Partners and Schools

In this workshop, we will provide an introduction to restorative justice practices in schools. Shaune Gatlin, Anne Sawyer, and Rehana Jamal have a wealth of experience creating and implementing conflict resolution programming in schools, primarily focused on peer mediation. The goal of this workshop is to expand our understanding of conflict resolution and give participants […]

WORDS Matter – What to Leave at the Courthouse When Mediating

Words wield tremendous power in the mediation process, influencing the parties’ ability to find resolution and maintain their focus on the shared goal of resolution rather than litigation. To enhance listening and negotiation abilities in mediation, the impact of language and its impact on the conflict mindset is significant. Legal advocates and mediators have the […]

Keynote: The Wound is Where the Light Enters You

In 2016, at the peak of a career in the fashion industry, I took a leap from a globe-trotting fashion executive to a life dedicated to service and community. It wasn’t a choice. The transformation came from deep within, sparked by what the mystics call a ‘dark night of the soul.’ The keynote will explore […]

Misunderstood Minds: Inclusivity in Practice

Confusion, non-responsiveness, yelling, repetition…these behaviors (and more) can be misinterpreted as a client just being “difficult” but what if these behaviors actually signaled something else? Client behavior in mediation could be communicating an unmet need that impacts information access. Attuning to these needs work to provide full access to the process. Join us for a […]

Mediation in Arts-Related Conflicts; Building Bridges Through Creative Dialogue

Conflict in the arts industry impacts artists, institutions, and stakeholders in various ways. This workshop explores mediation strategies to address arts-related conflicts, from artifact repatriation to day-to-day challenges. Objectives include deepening understanding, introducing mediation techniques, developing practical skills, and fostering peer learning. The workshop structure includes an interactive session, group discussions, and hands-on exercises covering […]

How to Turn Gladiators Into Peacemakers

In order for a mediation to be successful and effective, each party must understand the difference between litigation and mediation and shift from a gladiator/winning mindset to a peacemaker/problem-solving mindset. While mediators play an important role in creating an environment that encourages collaboration and creative problem solving, many clients lack the tools to communicate effectively, […]

How Do I Get Started? A Step-By-Step Guide for New Practitioners

Many new practitioners start by taking training to build mediation skills. But then what? Most have never had to set up or run the business of delivering professional services. Three speakers will provide step-by-step guidance on what to do after the training course: 1) Setting up a practice starts with a legal entity, getting an […]