Straus Institute Highlights Women in ADR

On October 5, the Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution hosted Women in ADR, an event that highlighted the achievements and challenges faced by women in the dispute resolution field. The Institute was grateful to have partnered with the Multicultural Law Coalition, a new student organization, for this program.

The distinguished panel included Cristina Ryan, Director of ADR Services, American Arbitration Association, Denise Madigan, Madigan ADR, and Lydia Liberio, Attorney and Mediator for Law Offices of Lydia Liberio, and the conversation was moderated by Straus' Associate Director Aparna Gupta, as well as Alexandra Ramos, a student leader of the MLC.

Ms. Madigan opened the program with an explanation of the dispute resolution continuum, sharing many opportunities students can participate in resolving conflict prior to litigation. Ms. Ryan discussed the multitude of career paths students may pursue in ADR, including ombuds, arbitration, mediation, and emphasizing that even in these paths, there are distinct opportunities for students and recent graduates. Ms. Liberio stressed the importance of gaining experience as a students through programs aimed at cultivating diversity in the profession. She encouraged students to make connections and leverage their experience to find mentors who can open doors in the industry.

Students had a chance to ask questions from the panelists, and the panelists generously offered their time to connect with interested students following the online event.