Mediation Services at Brenau University

What is Mediation?	An intervention into a dispute or negotiation by a neutral third party, who has no authoritative decision-making power, to assist disputing parties reach their own mutually acceptable agreement. A voluntary process that educates individuals about the issues involved in conflict and the relationships between the parties involved. A process that empowers the parties because they have ownership in the process and the outcome. A process that helps parties reach a more lasting and satisfying agreement on the issued involved than when the settlement is imposed by an external authority or the conflict is allowed to escalate.
How Can Mediation Benefit Me?	Reduces stress Saves you time and energy Helps in relationship building Increases your listening and speaking skills Provides personal satisfaction as you resolve problems Empowers you as you learn assertiveness skills
Is Mediation Confidential?	Yes. The parties sign an agreement outlining that what is communicated between sides in the mediation will be confidential and not used in a grievance process or in court.
Mediation is Not:	A replacement for the Brenau grievance system or any other policy stated in the catalog or Faculty/Staff Guidelines A place to obtain legal advice, personal or marital counseling A court where guilt or innocence is determined
Who are the Mediators at Brenau?	Brenau Mediators are experiences and trained mediation skills. Brenau Mediators often use the co-mediation process which allows two mediators to be assigned to each case. Brenau Mediators are members of the Brenau University community and may be faculty, staff, or students. Brenau Mediators can be reached by contacting Human Resources or Conflict Resources and Legal Studies Offices on the Brenau Campus. Human Resources Office: 770-534-6270 Conflict Resolution and Legal Studies Office: 770-534-6297
What types of Conflicts can be Mediated?	Mediation can be used to effectively resolve a wide variety of disputes, but is most effective where there is a relationship at stake. Some examples of disputes that the Brenau Mediation Group would mediate are: Co-worker disputes Departmental disputes Supervisor-supervisee disputes Roommate conflicts Conflict is uncomfortable, but we believe that: Working through conflict in a neutral, safe and comfortable environment strengthens relationships greatly. You don't have to keep fighting, hiding, or giving up!
Let us help!	Brenau University Mediators offer an effective approach to resolving conflicts that inevitably occur among people living and working in a close community. Our style of conflict resolution is compatible with the caring and compassionate community of dedicated professionals that characterizes Brenau University.