Discovering, developing, and advancing the next generation of an inclusive Roster of Arbitrators and Mediators is central to the AAA’s mission and crucial to the future of a diverse alternative dispute resolution (ADR) community.
Two significant AAA programs reach up-and-coming diverse professionals and law students. The programs provide training to equip them with the tools to proceed to a career in ADR and the mentorship to encourage and guide them to do so.
The AAA created this highly visible, extremely successful one-year program in 2009 to provide training, networking, and mentorship for up-and-coming diverse ADR practitioners, who historically have not been included in meaningful participation in the field.
- Since inception, the Program has inducted 150 Fellows.
- Almost all Fellows who have applied have advanced to AAA Roster appointment, with a majority selected to serve on cases. One was elected to the AAA’s Council.
- Fellows represent the United States (24 states, Washington, D.C., and territories Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands) and two foreign countries (Ghana and Kenya).
Launched in 2019, this program introduces ADR to students. The 1½-day ADR Summit for diverse law students provides an in-depth understanding of what it really takes to become a successful arbitrator and/or mediator.
Presenters include experienced ADR professionals and litigators from a variety of backgrounds demonstrating a successful career path as an arbitrator or mediator. Attendees learn the importance of focusing on a specific industry, networking, connecting with mentors, gaining relevant experience, and building a good reputation in the field. Applicants come from all over the country and overseas; accepted students are provided with a stipend to cover travel expenses.