and universities. Professor John Lande reminded the participants that when it was first founded, dispute resolution was considered a social innovation, a novel strategy to satisfy human needs. Professor Carrie Menkel-Meadow inspired participants to think about what dispute resolution, as a field, has done to teach the next generation about problem solving. “Mediation’s roots came from the civil rights movement, and we have done little to move that dial,” added professor Sharon Press. Stipanowich inspired participants to imagine a dynamic system that responds to the needs of people, is adaptable, and puts people in conflict in the driver’s seat. Beyond the discussions, the conference also provided participants with the opportunity to connect with one another and share strategies more informally. Two networking lunches served to bring together scholars and practitioners. Additionally, participants enjoyed a beachside evening reception at the exclusive Jonathan Club in Santa Monica, California, where they were able to mingle and network in view of the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. In his remarks, Singh inspired participants to prepare for, and indeed embrace, new ideas that advance the field of dispute resolution. The conference fostered many connections and discussions between scholars and leaders. The Straus Institute, as well as its collaborating institutions, remains committed to continuing these dialogues into the future.
Participants at the Appreciating Our Legacy conference—top: Daniel Gandert, Zachary Calo, Maureen Weston; center: Tom Stipanowich; bottom: Carrie Menkel-Meadow, Leonard Riskin, Douglas Yarn. Pepperdine University
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