Straus Institute to Host Program-Wide Mediation Competition for Students

On March 8, 2021, the Straus Institute will host an inaugural program-wide Mediation Competition, under the leadership of Professor Stephanie Blondell, who serves as Director of the Masters in Dispute Resolution Program and teaches the Mediation Clinic.

The competition encourages students to apply their knowledge and skills to challenges posed by clients, through a unique role-play simulation created by practitioners. Participants will be evaluated based on their ability to combine advocacy and problem-solving methodology to mediate effectively through negotiation, learning about other client's interests, and choosing best alternatives. Judges will offer valuable feedback to evaluate performances and use of mediation tactics.

The program will be held virtually from 3:00 pm-9:00 pm Pacific. Professor Blondell has been at the forefront of thinking about clinical mediation pedagogy during COVID-19 and leads a regular discussion for clinical faculty who teach ADR skills to law students across the country.