Dispute Resolution Law Journal Symposium 2024 Explores Faith, Dialogue, and Meaning

The Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution at Pepperdine Caruso School of Law recently hosted its annual Dispute Resolution Law Journal Symposium, focusing on the theme "Faith, Dialogue, and Meaning" in conflict resolution. Under the leadership of symposium editor Zoie Stanton and faculty advisor professor Helen Winter, the event welcomed esteemed scholars, practitioners, and students to explore innovative approaches within the field of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) through the lens of faith.

The symposium opened with remarks from dean Paul Caron and Winter, who shared her journey with R3SOLUTE, a conflict resolution initiative she co-founded to support refugees and local communities in Germany. Her story highlighted the transformative power of dialogue, illustrating how refugees and locals found common ground despite challenging circumstances.

The keynote address was delivered by professor Ken Cloke, a respected leader in mediation. He encouraged attendees to consider how spirituality and personal values influence their approaches to conflict resolution.

Throughout the day, participants engaged in thought-provoking panel discussions, including: 

• Conflict Resolution: Lessons from Faith. Led by Dr. Shaphan Roberts, the panel featured voices from diverse faith backgrounds, including Dr. Arik Greenberg, Rabbi David Wolpe, professor J. Goosby Smith, Soraya Deen, and Chama Mechtaly. The panel focused on discussing how their beliefs guide their conflict resolution practices.
• Healing to Unite: Theory to Practice – Lessons from Dialogue. Moderated by Winter, the panel included Deanna Pantín Parrish, Chloë-Arizona Fodor, Aziza Hasan, professor Christine Goodman, and professor Tom Stipanowich. The panel session highlighted practical strategies for bridging divides through meaningful conversation.
• The Future: Us and Them – Lessons from Seeking Meaning. Led by professor Stephanie Blondell, the panel included Nicolás Parra-Herrera, Maia Ferdman, and Dr. John D. Barton The panel explored how shared meaning can foster connection and understanding among people. Professor Stipanowich also reflected on Abraham Lincoln’s legacy as a peacemaker, emphasizing the importance of personal growth in leadership.

The symposium concluded with heartfelt gratitude expressed by Winter and Stanton to the organizing team of Kristin Lyming, Deborah Jasmin, Krestina Torossian, and Dareen Galeano. Their dedication contributed to the event's success and reinforced the Straus Institute’s mission to educate future ADR leaders.

Attendees left inspired by the stories and insights shared throughout the day, carrying a renewed sense of purpose in advancing dialogue and innovative conflict resolution practices.