Date: Friday, November 14 2025, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm

Location: McCourt School of Public Policy (125 E St NW), Room 440

Mediation Skills for Challenging Conversations, with Emmett Ward
Whether managing conflict in a community setting, facilitating dialogue among diverse groups, or leading teams through moments of tension, strong mediation skills can make all the difference. This interactive workshop teaches practical techniques, including reflective listening, effective questioning, brainstorming, and de-escalation, to help you engage productively in difficult conversations. Through demonstrations and guided practice, you’ll learn to foster understanding, reduce tension, and create space for genuine collaboration. These skills strengthen your effectiveness as a communicator and leader, even in the most challenging environments.

Applications are due Monday, November 10 at 10:00 pm ET.

About the Facilitator

Emmett J. Ward

Emmett J. Ward is a mediator, trainer, and consultant specializing in conflict resolution, dialogue facilitation, and the development of mediation programs. He has mediated thousands of cases across civil, family, and community settings and trained hundreds of mediators, including students, judges, and court staff. He has provided training to numerous organizations and at national forums, including the American Bar Association Dispute Resolution Section, the Weinstein JAMS International Fellows Program, and the Association for Conflict Resolution.

He has held leadership roles in court-based ADR programs, including ADR Training Manager for the D.C. Superior Court Multi-Door Dispute Resolution Division and ADR Resource Coordinator with Maryland’s Mediation and Conflict Resolution Office (MACRO). As Deputy Director of the ADR Office for the District Court of Maryland, he maintains a systematic approach to quality assurance, ensuring that programs and practitioners provide consistent, high-quality services statewide. He also provides continuing education to ADR practitioners, court stakeholders, and mediation partners.

Previously, Emmett served as an Associate Ombuds at FEMA, offering confidential conflict resolution support to a nationwide workforce of 20,000. He also works as a consultant, delivering tailored training and support to organizations.