ASU Law School logoArizona State University was recently recognized internationally for its work in alternative dispute resolution. Specifically, its Foreclosure Mediation Unit was honored.

The recognition came from a “New York City-based nonprofit think tank and alliance of global corporations, law firms, scholars and public institutions dedicated to the principles of commercial conflict prevention and alternative dispute resolution.”

As Tom Orewyler at the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at ASU describes it:

for its innovative work in the field of alternative dispute logo“The Foreclosure Mediation Unit at the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University has received the 2012 Outstanding Practical Achievement award from the International Institute for Conflict Prevention & Resolution for its innovative work in the field of alternative dispute resolution.”

“Established in 2011, the Unit was created by the College of Law’s Lodestar Dispute Resolution Program to provide impartial mediation services between lenders and residential borrowers facing foreclosure. Law students in the program learn commercial mediation skills and work with Unit staff to prepare for and conduct mediations. The Unit currently is administering a program to assist the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Arizona in the management of bankruptcy cases that involve disputes concerning residential mortgages and foreclosures.”

“‘We are grateful to the Institute for recognizing our unique work in creating dispute resolution avenues for lenders and for borrowers facing foreclosure,’ Dean Douglas Sylvester said. ‘This prestigious award is a testament to the innovation of our Foreclosure Mediation Unit specifically, and our clinical programs, generally. This honor would not have been possible without the tireless effort and student-focused leadership that our world-class faculty regularly exhibit.’”

Congratulations to those who have worked very hard to make the Unit an agent for change in a tough economy. You can read the complete story, including remarks by Tim Burr, the Unit’s director, here.