When labor peace breaks down, the consequences reach far beyond the bargaining table. As labor conflicts become more visible and negotiations more complex, one of the least‑understood questions in labor relations is also among the most important: Who helps the parties when the stakes are highest?

This Keynote will explore the role and impact of labor mediation and why preserving that capacity matters for workers, employers, the economy, and the public. Drawing on recent developments in conflict and dispute resolution, the session examines the essential role of mediators, the repercussions of downsizing the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service, and the urgent need to rebuild what is close to being lost.

Join Cornell ILR School Dean Alex Colvin as he moderates a panel featuring faculty members Ariel Avgar, Dionne Pohler, and Javier Ramirez for a critical conversation on the evolving landscape and actions necessary to build labor peace.

What You'll Learn:

• Why labor mediation is a specialized craft
• Why the loss of experienced labor mediators matters
• How a more polarized and conflict-prone environment is changing the workplace and labor relations
• Why trusted neutrals are essential in high-stakes disputes
• How education, training, and collaboration can help preserve mediation capacity

Speakers:

Ariel Avgar
David M. Cohen Professor of Labor Relations, Law, and History
Cornell ILR School

Cornell ILR School

Alexander Colvin
Kenneth F. Kahn '69 Dean, Martin F. Scheinman ’75, MS ’76, Professor of Conflict Resolution
Cornell ILR School

Dionne Pohler
David and Alexandra Lipsky Professor in Dispute Resolution and Labor Relations
Cornell ILR School

Javier Ramirez
Executive Manager, National Conflict Resolution Service, Scheinman Institute
Cornell ILR School