July 24, 2000

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NATIONAL MEDIATION BOARD

NMB Launches a Cooperative Partnership with George Mason University

National Mediation Board (NMB) chairman Ernest W. DuBester announced the launching of a cooperative partnership between the NMB and George Mason University (GMU). The new Center for Advanced Study of Law and Dispute Resolution Processes brings together the resources of the NMB with those of the university's Institute for Conflict Analysis and Resolution (ICAR) and its School of Law.

The interdisciplinary Center will promote education in the law and practice of dispute resolution and will foster collaborative initiatives through the School of Law, ICAR and the NMB. Initially, the Center will focus on labor-management priorities in the air and rail transport industries. Initiatives likely will include specialized dispute resolution conferences, seminars and workshops, internships for GMU law and ICAR students at the NMB and the creation of an NMB mediator continuing education program. Longer term programs may include the incorporation of an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) track at the School of Law, the creation of a funded transportation dispute resolution center and the hosting of an international conference on comparative dispute resolution in transportation.

The Center will have an Advisory Board consisting of industry, labor and other representatives to provide guidance, advice and resources. The Executive Committee, presently consisting of senior university officials and the current chair of the NMB, is the Center's policy making body. NMB General Counsel Ronald Etters has been appointed the Center's director and its chief executive officer.

For additional information concerning the Center or service on the Advisory Board, contact Ronald Etters at (bio) (703) 993-8027 or retters@gmu.edu.

(For George Mason University press release)

(Web site for Center for Advanced Study of Law and Dispute Resolution Processes")