Program aims to increase diversity in the alternative dispute resolution field
The College of Commercial Arbitrators has opened registrations for a new mentorship opportunity. The CCA’s associates program was created to share the fellows’ highest standards of ethics and professional conduct and their innovative best practices with arbitrators from diverse backgrounds.
The fellows of the CCA are recognized as highly experienced and sought-after members of the commercial arbitration profession. However, according to the CCA president, Mark Heley, the market landscape is changing and the CCA is proactively responding.
“Parties to commercial arbitration proceedings are becoming more diverse and are, in turn, looking for a more diverse group of arbitrators,” said Heley. “The CCA associates program serves this interest by working to expand the pool of qualified arbitrators from groups that have been historically underrepresented.”
Three applicants will be chosen to participate in the two-year mentorship program. Applicants must meet requirements such as currently having an active ADR practice, having less than five years of experience serving as a commercial arbitrator, and confirming a commitment to develop the skills needed to provide high-quality commercial arbitration services.
CCA fellows meet regularly to share experiences, develop new ideas and advocate for the process of commercial arbitration. The CCA recognizes that a broad cross section of fellows from varied and diverse backgrounds allows the group to foster new insights, share different perspectives, enhance business opportunities and advance the field of commercial arbitration.
“The CCA knows that actions in this regard speak much louder than words,” said Heley. “For this reason, the CCA remains committed to its diversity initiatives.”
The CCA is a professional, collegial organization established in 2001, that celebrates and advocates excellence in the field of commercial arbitration in the US and internationally.
