New Graduates from the Center for Dispute Resolution

This spring, the USC Gould's Center for Dispute Resolution graduated its eighth class and welcomed our newest members to our alumni Trojan Family, ready to immerse themselves in the field to expand the future of ADR.

In this issue, we invite you to read about some of the Center’s collaborative partnerships, exceptional students and career-focused conversations that are a staple of USC Gould's commitment to advancing dispute resolution education and practice.

Discover USC Gould:

Fall 2025 Admit Day

This March, USC Gould hosted virtual and in-person events to immerse our incoming Fall 2025 class in our Trojan Family and law community. Admitted students were invited to network with current students and potential classmates and attend exclusive presentations. 

Sessions also included an opportunity to observe a class and tour the law school, university campus and USC Housing. We were thrilled that incoming MDR student, Violet Yamasaki, was able to join and share her passion for dispute resolution!

USC Gould Launches a New Online Certificate in Dispute Resolution

For the first time, USC Gould will have a dedicated certificate available online for specialized education in ADR. The online Dispute Resolution certificate is ideal for professionals who want to advance their careers by incorporating dispute resolution skills into their work, especially in human resources.

The online curriculum provides a convenient, flexible way to pursue advanced training in ADR and employment law and further emphasizes Gould's commitment to expanding the field. Learn more here.

Read an interview here with one of our online dispute resolution Lecturers, Wendi Ross, about her ADR Law and Policy class. In the Q&A, she shares how her course touches on everything from the familiar — like negotiations, mediation, and arbitration — to the more innovative methods of dispute resolution, such as private judging, conciliation and mini-trials, to provide a comprehensive understanding of how conflicts can be resolved outside the courtroom.

Trailblazing Women in Law School Leadership

As part of USC Gould's year-long 125th anniversary celebration, three USC Gould alumnae joined Dean Franita Tolson for a conversation about trailblazing women in law school leadership on March 31.

Lisa Kloppenberg (JD 1987), Professor of Law and Dean Emerita at Santa Clara Law School and previously Acting President and Provost of Santa Clara University; LaVonda Reed (JD 1997), Dean of University of Baltimore School of Law; and Brietta Clark (JD 1999), Dean of Loyola Law School, discussed their journeys to leadership, as well as the challenging and rewarding aspects of their complex roles.

Ninth Circuit Senior Judge and former Gould Dean Dorothy W. Nelson delivered a special message, to accept the USC Gould 125th Anniversary Luminary Award, in honor of her leadership, service and courage in lighting new paths for others to follow, and was recognized as a pioneer in mediation and arbitration education. Professor Kloppenberg clerked for Judge Nelson and became an expert in ADR, which she called “Appropriate” Dispute Resolution. 

Read the full recap here.

CPR International Mediation Competition Sponsorship

The Center was once again proud to sponsor the International Mediation Competition organized by the International Institute for Conflict Prevention & Resolution (CPR) in São Paulo, Brazil!

Thank you to our USC Brazil Director, Marcus Costa, for representing USC Gould School of Law at the opening ceremony and congratulations to CPR, Knar A. Nahikian, Esq., its Vice President of CPR who coordinated the competition, and Insper Instituto de Ensino e Pesquisa for hosting such an impactful event.

A Top-10 LLM Program in Alternative Dispute Resolution

The Center celebrates being ranked as one of the Top 10 LLM Programs in ADR by LLM GUIDE! USC Gould is proud to provide one of the nation’s longest-standing offerings in negotiation, mediation and dispute resolution.

Gould’s students continue to represent more than 35 countries, providing a rich cross-cultural environment that enhances the values of mutual respect and inclusivity, as well as student learning and skill development.

2025 EEOC Externship Experience

The Center offers externship opportunities at the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) in Los Angeles, where students work under the supervision of Administrative Judge Diane Gross. These externships provide valuable practical experience in employment discrimination law, focusing on resolving discrimination claims and understanding the resolution process within the federal government. 

Hear from one of our inaugural externs below:

Breandra Mitchell, USC Gould MDR Class of 2025

I’ve always been drawn to the idea of resolving conflict through communication rather than confrontation. Mediation, to me, represents a space where empathy, active listening, and problem-solving intersect—skills that I find incredibly meaningful, both personally and professionally. I applied for this externship because I wanted to experience that process firsthand, particularly in the context of federal cases, where the stakes are often higher and the dynamics more complex. Also, I wanted a greater and a more profound understanding of employment mediation as I’ve always had a desire to resolve issues outside of community disputes. 

From this experience, I was hoping to gain tactical maneuvers from impasse to resolution, to know when it would be the best time to caucus, a clearer understanding of what constitutes discrimination, hostile work environment, and harassment. I was also hoping to gain a deeper understanding of the mediation process in real-world settings—beyond what textbooks can offer. I wanted to observe how mediators build trust, manage power imbalances, and guide parties toward resolution. I also hoped to sharpen my own communication skills, especially when it comes to neutrality and reframing issues constructively.      

So far, I’ve had the opportunity to observe several mediations within the federal sector, some cases from departments such as USPS, Navy, Immigrations, and Healthcare, aid in case preparation, review confidential statements, and participate in post-session debriefs with Supervising Judge Gross. I’ve also taken part in discussions about negotiation techniques (such as trading monetary demands for sick or annual leave as a way to move from a stalemate,) and ethical considerations, which has helped me build a more nuanced view of the mediator’s role.

Mediating—or even just observing—federal cases has been both humbling and inspiring. There’s a real sense of responsibility when people are entrusting you with the chance to resolve something deeply impactful in their lives. I’ve felt challenged, at times, especially when emotions run high, but those are also the moments that reinforce the importance of this work.

One moment that stands out was during a mediation where the parties monetary values started out extremely far apart. The complainant demanded $150k, the agency was willing to only give $5k, and they wouldn't make concessions. The mediation lasted 5 hours; however, we didn’t give up and we kept going back and forth trying to close the gap. The shift wasn’t dramatic, but it felt genuine, and it was clear that our patience and ability to reframe the issues made that possible. Another moment was during a private caucus where a party expressed how simply being heard had changed their outlook. It reminded me that, sometimes, resolution isn’t just about agreement—it’s about validation.

International Arbitration Student Networking Event

As part of the Center's ongoing career services events, students recently had the opportunity to meet with distinguished alumni and professionals working for the American Arbitration Association (AAA) - International Center for Dispute Resolution (ICDR) office in downtown Los Angeles.

Hear from one of our student participants below:

Anallely (Ana) Orozco, MDR Class of 2025

It was a pleasure connecting with fellow arbitrators Ernesto M. Hernandez and Patrick Zheng, as well as meeting both new and familiar faces. I had the pleasure of meeting Vice President, Michael R. Powell, ICDR Director Erin K. Brennan, and reconnecting with the ICDR Director (North America & Energy Section) Fernanda Flores.

I want to thank the USC Assistant Director of Graduate Career Services, Amanda Thyden ,and the AAA LA Team for organizing such a valuable gathering.

The event was held in the AAA-ICDR’s Skyrise office, a modern and welcoming space with a stylish scullery where guests can enjoy snacks, food, and drinks—a thoughtful touch, especially for those long arbitration meetings (no hangry clients!). During the event, we were given a tour of the high-tech conference rooms and office spaces designed to support international video conferencing and virtual arbitration. Erin and Fernanda gave an engaging presentation on the arbitration process, touching on the differences between arbitration and mediation, the types of cases they handle, their global reach, and how they match clients with arbitrators based on language and subject-matter expertise. The evening wrapped up with a Q&A session and an opportunity to network and exchange contact information.

It was an enjoyable and insightful event. The hosts were welcoming and created a comfortable environment for USC students to learn more about the world of international arbitration. I walked away with new connections and a deeper understanding of AAA-ICDR’s work.

Nabil Samiaji Bremi, S.H. | LLM in ADR 2024

Nabil Samaiji Bremi is a recent graduate of the LLM in Alternative Dispute Resolution program from the USC Gould School of Law’s Center for Dispute Resolution. In this Q&A, he discusses the memorable transition to USC, living in L.A. and his goals for the future of dispute resolution in Indonesia.

What sparked your interest in learning about the law?

My grandfather was a supreme court judge, and I have several uncles and family members who are practicing lawyers, so I saw the opportunity to practice law firsthand.

I was also very inspired by watching the TV show “Suits” and being the type of lawyer that the main character, Harvey Specter, personified.

What made you pursue your degree, and why at USC Gould?

ADR is a branch of law that does not receive as much focus in my home country of Indonesia, and my hope is that I can bring back my knowledge in ADR as a faster way to settle cases. ADR also teaches you how to negotiate, which is a valuable part of working through a case and helping it to settle outside of court. The reason that I chose USC Gould was because I love L.A. and wanted to live in the city for a year. On top of that, USC Gould is one of the top schools in the USA! I also value the alumni relationships. The Trojan bond is so strong that it can go a long way for your future.

How was the transition into your program, and how did USC assist you?

My transition into the program went smoothly. It was a new environment for me, but Amanda Thyden, the assistant director of graduate career services, and the rest of the G&IP [Graduate and International Programs] staff helped me so much, from picking the relevant classes to helping with registration and other needs and concerns.

What is the most memorable experience or learning from your USC studies?

I liked how Professor Jason Marsili’s classes (Mediation Advocacy and Negotiation Theory and Application) offered hands-on experience in mediating and negotiating. He teaches you different skills that will make you a better negotiator and a better mediator. Being in his classes itself was a very memorable experience.

What is something that you enjoyed during your time as a student outside of your studies?

I really enjoyed going to the gym as a student, especially in the USC Village or in Lyon Health Center. I discovered the gyms on campus after six months as a student and found my passion for exercise. Everyone is friendly, and as there are so many people at the gym, you will never feel alone.

How will your degree from USC Gould give you an advantage for your future career? What do you want to do next with your degree?

I really want to be a government contractor in the field of defense. I feel that with my ADR degree, I have learned the necessary skills from my negotiation classes to know how to win deals and how to negotiate. I am sure that these skills will help me be the entrepreneur I aspire to become soon.

What advice do you have for students who may be interested in following a similar path to yours?

GO FOR IT. Don’t think twice, become a TROJAN and Fight On!

Lecturer Gary B. Ross | Arbitration and Mediation Advocacy

Lecturer Ross continues to be an active panelist of the American Arbitration Association, with a full caseload of matters in arbitration and mediation. Additionally, he has served as the Planning Commission Chair for the City of Beverly Hills since 2022, adjudicating applications for residential and commercial building projects.

Lecturer Thomas Lenz | LAW360 Quote

Lecturer Lenz lent his expert opinion to a LAW360 Employment Authority article, titled Supreme Court Denials Won't End NLRB Loper BrightArgs.

"I think it's just a matter of the court having the confidence that the case presented, whichever one that is, is going to be the right one with the cleanest record to make their point," Lenz said. Read the full article here.

Lecturer Dr. Jack Goetz | Vice Chair Appointment

Lecturer Goetz has been appointed Vice-Chair of the California State Bar Alternative Dispute Resolution Certification Working Group!

Effective January 1, 2025, new Business and Professions Code section 6173 requires the State Bar to create a voluntary certification program for alternative dispute resolution (ADR) firms, providers and practitioners. This program aims to promote adherence to ethical standards for ADR services and establish consumer protection mechanisms. State Bar staff formed an ADR Certification Working Group to develop the framework and implementation strategy for this new certification program.

Vikram Singh Rajpurohit | LLM in ADR 2019

Congratulations to LLM in ADR alum, Vikram Singh Rajpurohit, who recently passed the New York Bar Exam, adding to his licensure in Texas.

He is currently working as an Associate Attorney at Daspit Law Firm in Dallas, Texas.

Sharvani A. Navangul | LLM in ADR 2023

Congratulations to Sharvani Navangul for passing the California Bar Exam! She has joinged Quinn Covarrubias as an Associate Attorney, where she defends public and private clients in civil litigation.

Quinn Covarrubias is a women-owned civil litigation firm representing public and private clients with offices in Roseville and Orange County. Her work spans employment disputes - including wrongful termination, class action, discrimination, harassment, and wage/hour claims - as well as personal injury and railroad-related cases.

Pamela Issa Silva Fajuri | LLM in ADR 2022

LLM in ADR alum, Pamela Issa Silva Fajuri, is now working at Trademarkia.com as a Clients Relations Manager and Country Manager for Chile.

Mosima Thema | LLM in ADR 2021

Congratulations to LLM in ADR alum, Mosima Thema, who just passed the California Bar Exam! Since graduating, Mosima has worked for the Superior Court of California and, most recently, as a Law Clerk at Sketchers in Los Angeles.

Jenny Januszewski | MDR 2024

Three days after graduating, MDR alum Jenny Januszewski started a new position as the HR Manager of a non-profit that serves API survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse in addition to serving as a member of the Equity and Justice Committee. Through the committee, she will be creating their conflict resolution guide.

Jenny has also been serving as a mediator and mediator coach for CA Lawyers for The Arts and recently opened her private practice, Aspire Mediation Services, LLC.

After completing her MDR, she also enrolled in a J.D. program and is nearing the end of 1L! She is still in touch with her study group from Gould and connects with them every week if not more. Fight On!

Know someone interested in ADR? Have them sign up for news and invitations to our events so that they learn more about our LLM, master's and certificates focused on conflict resolution.