Professor Thomas Stipanowich Moderates Landmark Federal Arbitration Act Panel at College of Commercial Arbitrators Summit II

On June 5, 2025, professor Thomas Stipanowich, William H. Webster Chair in Dispute Resolution at Pepperdine Caruso School of Law, played a key role in shaping the national conversation on the future of commercial arbitration. He served as the moderator for the culminating panel, "What We Have Learned Today: The Future of the FAA and the CCA Protocols," at the College of Commercial Arbitrators (CCA) Summit II held in Washington, DC.

The event marked two major milestones: the 100th anniversary of the Federal Arbitration Act (FAA), a foundational piece of legislation in American dispute resolution, and the 15th anniversary of the CCA’s first summit, which led to the development of the CCA Protocols for Expeditious, Cost-Effective Commercial Arbitration. These protocols were pivotal in advancing best practices among arbitrators and disputants, setting the stage for subsequent innovation and institutional rulemaking.

Summit II was designed as a space for critical reflection and forward-thinking. Panel discussions revisited the original Protocol Review Groups, evaluated the impact of generative artificial intelligence on arbitral practice, and assessed the United States Supreme Court’s evolving interpretation of the Federal Arbitration Act (FAA). The day concluded with the session moderated by Professor Stipanowich, which offered a robust and interactive dialogue on how arbitration practice and policy must evolve to meet the demands of the next century.

Panelists joining Professor Stipanowich included:

• John K. Boyce III, Boyce ADR, San Antonio
• Thomas Hanrahan, T.P. Hanrahan Dispute Solutions, California
• The Honorable Faith Hochberg, Principal, HochbergADR LLC, New Jersey
• John Holsinger, John R. Holsinger, LLC, New Jersey
• Barbara Reeves, Arbitrator, JAMS, and Immediate Past President of the College of Commercial Arbitrators, California

As a nationally recognized scholar, arbitrator, and leader in the field of dispute resolution, Professor Stipanowich’s participation in this timely conversation reflects his ongoing engagement with the evolving landscape of arbitration and his commitment to supporting thoughtful dialogue on the future of dispute resolution.