External Mediation
What is Mediation?
Mediation is a thoughtfully structured process that can be used in a variety of conflict situations. It is a way to help people resolve their own conflicts and design their own solutions. Trained, impartial mediators bring people together in a neutral setting, guiding them step-by-step through the problem-solving process. All solutions are voluntary and must be agreed upon by both parties.
Mediation has assisted many individuals and groups to move beyond painful experiences and grievances toward agreements and reconciliation.
External Mediation for Ohio University Employees and Students
The Ombudsperson offers mediation to parties in conflict, however, sometimes it may be advantageous for parties to seek mediation outside of the University setting. For this purpose, Ohio University contracts with a community organization to conduct the mediations.
The Athens Area Mediation Service (AAMS) is a non-profit organization with skilled, trained mediators committed to finding peaceful solutions to individual and community disputes. Its mediators are all members of the Athens-area community; some work at the university and others are not affiliated with OU. In general, two mediators who do not know the parties in conflict work together during the mediation sessions. This service is also available to students and staff at the regional campuses.
How would someone arrange for a mediation?
Contact the Athens Area Mediation Service (AAMS) at 594-6169. Together, you and the AAMS director will assess whether your situation is appropriate for mediation and if so, AAMS will contact the other people involved to explore the option of setting up a mediation session. Mediation is a confidential and voluntary service.
Where are AAMS mediations held?
Mediations are conducted at the AAMS office, 8 North Court Street, Suite 408. Mediations may take place during work hours, evenings or weekends.
What kind of employee issues can be handled through AAMS?
- Issues with sharing resources
- Interpersonal, interdepartmental, or intra-departmental issues
- Communication concerns
- Personality clashes
- Problem-solving strategies
- Discrimination
- Other job-related issues
What kind of student situations are appropriate for mediation?
- Landlord/tenant issues
- Roommate conflicts
- Consumer conflicts
- Communication issues
- Neighborhood disputes
- Relationship issues
- Problem-solving
- Discrimination