Student Mediation Services at Lafayette College

Mediation
Mediation is a collaborative problem-solving approach to resolving conflict between individuals or groups. It is voluntary and conducted in a safe and confidential environment by an impartial mediator. Mediation provides an opportunity for participants to say what's important to them and to hear the other person's perspectives. It shifts the focus from the past to the future and helps parties consider new options. A written agreement is the only record of the mediation session.

Mediators
Mediators are professional staff members who help individuals resolve conflicts, identify and clarify issues, and develop mutually acceptable agreements. They facilitate communication by helping disputing parties understand one another's views and guiding participants through a process that encourages them to generate their own solutions. Lafayette's mediators have training and experience in conflict resolution practices.

What are the benefits of mediation?
Mediation at Lafayette is voluntary, confidential, informal, collaborative, non-adversarial, and free. It entails facilitated communication, mutual problem solving, and creating solutions. It also expands options for resolving issues.

Mediation Is Not

• A legal proceeding or college adjudication
• A way to place blame
• Counseling
• Public
• Required

What types of disputes can be brought to mediation?
Disputes between roommates, friends, teammates, neighbors, couples, living groups, organizations, or others who are in conflict.

Can all types of conflict be mediated?
Not all situations can or should be mediated. All parties, including the mediator, must agree that mediation is appropriate. Mediation may not be used to circumvent the College's disciplinary process.

How is a mediation session scheduled?
Contact the Office of the Dean of Students at 610-330-5064 (x5064). A staff member in the Dean's Office will explain the process in greater detail and make a mediation referral as needed.