FSU Press Release:

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. --

Florida and The Florida State University have long been leaders in promoting mediation as a means of conflict resolution. This year the week of Oct. 12–18 is Mediation Week in Florida, and Thursday, Oct. 15 is Mediation Day at Florida State.

Mediation helps curtail disputes and reduce anxiety with the participation of a trained, impartial facilitator. The concept allows for individuals to play a significant role in determining the resolution of their own predicament, an aspect of mediation many find appealing and empowering. Florida State University strives to educate students by means of non-confrontational methods of problem solving, said Mediation Day organizers.

“The mediator has no authority to impose solutions or to judge the dispute -- he or she is there to help the parties explore possible ways of resolving their own differences,” said event coordinator, Mary Wilkes, director of FSU Office of Employee Assistance Services. “Mediation empowers participants. People are more likely to be satisfied with a mediated agreement than with a judge’s decision. Everyone thinks their case will prevail when they go to court, but the truth is only 50 percent prevail -- the other half lose. About 90 percent of mediated agreements are kept, much higher than compliance of court orders.”

Florida State’s day of recognition takes place in concert with events being held around the world on Conflict Resolution Day, created by the Association for Conflict Resolution in order to increase public awareness about alternative means of resolving disputes. It is celebrated annually on the third Thursday in October.

Events and honors for mediation week include:

On Tuesday, Oct. 13 the Peer Mediation Club from Florida State will join students at Florida State University Schools (FSUS) for an afternoon of cooperative games and conflict resolution skill building

FSUS is sponsoring a month-long conflict resolution themed poetry contest with a deadline on Oct. 15 and judged by Mediation Day Committee members, and prizes will be awarded.

On Oct. 19, Leon County Court mediators will be honored with certificates of appreciation from the Mediation Day Committee.

Gov. Charlie Crist has signed a proclamation that Oct.12 – 18 be Mediation Week statewide, and President T.K. Wetherell has signed a Mediation Day proclamation for Thur. Oct. 15, at Florida State University.