Letter from the Chair

Dear Colleagues,

As Chair of the ABA Section of Dispute Resolution, I am honored to introduce this edition of Dispute Resolution Magazine, centered on the theme “Embracing Intercultural Communication.” This issue invites us to consider how we, as dispute resolution professionals, can meaningfully bridge divides and foster inclusivity in our work.

In these pages, you’ll find articles that explore the intersection of race, culture, identity, and communication. From examining systemic inequities in dispute resolution processes to innovative approaches like arts mediation, these articles encourage us to deepen our cultural competence and embrace practices that honor the diverse identities of those we serve. While the specifics of each article may vary, they collectively underscore the importance of empathy, adaptability, and self-reflection in building more inclusive and equitable practices.

In addition to the rich insights offered by this issue, I want to share some exciting updates and initiatives from the Section this bar year:

1. Launch of the Practice Development Institute (PDI):
   This September, we introduced our first new Institute in many years, the Practice Development Institute (PDI), which joins our highly successful Advanced Mediation & Advocacy Skills Institute and Arbitration Institute. The PDI was created in response to member requests for robust practice development and support programming. Its virtual format allowed us to connect with members across the country, and the overwhelming response confirmed the need for this initiative. We are thrilled to announce that the PDI will become an annual event, providing invaluable resources for dispute resolution professionals at all stages of their careers.
2. Hybrid Format for the Annual Spring Conference:
   This April, we’re embracing innovation with a new hybrid format for our Annual Spring Conference. Budget cuts across the ABA, including the removal of 100% of our funding, have necessitated creative solutions, and we are excited about what’s ahead. The in-person portion of the conference will be held in Chicago at Convene, a state-of-the-art facility, with a streamlined two-day format. At the same time, we’ll offer virtual programming to engage remote attendees. This hybrid approach allows us to provide a robust, cost-effective conference experience while extending access to our nearly 13,000 members. More details will be shared soon, and we hope you’ll join us for this innovative event.
3. Addition of a Policy Officer to Leadership:
   To enhance our role in ABA policymaking, we’ve added the position of Policy Officer to the Section’s leadership team. I am delighted to announce that Immediate Past-Chair Ana Sambold has been appointed to this role. Ana will work closely with our House of Delegates representatives, James Alfini and David Larson, to advance policies that support and elevate the field of dispute resolution.
4. Monthly “Chat with the Chair” Meetings:
   To foster connection and engagement, I host monthly Chat with the Chair meetings, open to members and non-members alike. These virtual sessions are an opportunity to share updates, discuss the Section’s initiatives, and hear your insights and ideas.

These initiatives reflect our commitment to serving you—our diverse and dynamic community of dispute resolution professionals. We remain dedicated to creating opportunities for growth, collaboration, and innovation in our field.

As I close, I extend my deepest gratitude to the editorial board and authors who contributed to this issue. Their insights challenge us to reconsider what it truly means to “resolve” a dispute, inspiring a renewed dedication to inclusivity and respect in our work. Thank you for your continued commitment to this shared journey, as we bring our collective skills and talents to support the resolution of conflicts in our homes, our communities, and beyond.

Warm regards,
Susan Guthrie, Esq.
Chair, ABA Section of Dispute Resolution