A dispute arises when two or more parties experience actual or perceived competing interests or when the actions or values of one person are incompatible with the values, actions, or wishes of another person. Rather than be destructive, conflict can stimulate communication, problem-solving, goal identification, and constructive resolution. Using the help of an impartial third person, conflicting parties come together informally to talk through their conflict and attempt to reach a mutually acceptable solution. In mediation, both parties have the opportunity to express their concerns about the issues involved in their conflict. All decisions are made by the parties, not the mediator.
Mediation is free and confidential, and no records are kept by the mediator.
If you believe that you have a dispute which remains unresolved after your own attempts to resolve the matter, you might consider contacting the Campus CR Coordinator. The Coordinator serves as the chair of the Conflict Resolution Committee and will screen your problem to determine if mediation is the proper course of action. If the Coordinator indicates that mediation might help remedy the situation, then you will be referred to one of the trained mediators on campus. The mediator will meet with the conflicting parties to discuss the dispute and facilitate the discussion. A trained mediator helps people examine their situation in terms of personal needs and interests.