The International Academy of Dispute Resolution (INADR) is coming to Loyola University School of Law in Chicago this March for its 9th Annual World Mediation Congress, March 6-7, followed immediately by its 17th Annual International Law School Mediation Tournament, March 8-10, co-sponsored by the Illinois State Bar Association.

The Congress will feature a wide variety of speakers and workshops covering all things mediation. Highlights include Kenneth Cloke, internationally-recognized mediator, dialogue facilitator, conflict resolution systems designer, teacher, and author, who will present The Conflict of Politics and The Politics of Conflict: How to Think About and Respond to Political Conflicts; Magic of Mediation, presented by ISBA Past President Fred Lane; Gathering of Mediators roundtable discussion mediated by Case Ellis, long-time ISBA ADR Section Council member and former member of the Board of Governors; and the Mediation’s Newest Sibling – Collaborative Process workshop conducted by ISBA Member Sandra Crawford. To get more information and register for the Congress, visit the INADR website.

Following the Congress, Loyola University School of Law will host the mediation tournament. Law students from all over the world who are interested in pursuing careers in mediation and ADR will attend the tournament to compete and learn more about mediation. The competition consists of three preliminary rounds, followed by a semi-final and final rounds wherein each student on each team gets the opportunity to compete in the roles of mediator, attorney-advocate, and client. At the end of the competition awards will be given to the top performers in each category.

ISBA members with an interest or expertise in the area of mediation and alternative dispute resolution are encouraged to sign up as volunteer judges for the tournament. As a judge, you will be trained before each round to ensure you are familiar with the judging process. You will then be asked to evaluate each student on his or her performance on each role and have the opportunity to provide direct feedback. Participation as a volunteer judge goes a long way in ensuring participants are excited about the prospect of careers in mediation in ADR. Learn more and register to be a judge on the INADR website.

Questions should be directed to H. Case Ellis, Congress coordinator, at (815) 459-1001.