ACR-GNY 25th Annual Conference
by Association for Conflict Resolution Greater New York Chapter
The Association for Conflict Resolution Greater New York Chapter (ACR-GNY) is hosting its 25th Annual Conference, titled "Ex/change: Established Practice and Emerging Ideas," from June 9 to June 12, 2026. This hybrid event will primarily be conducted online via Zoom, with a special in-person gathering on Thursday, June 11, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the American Arbitration Association in Midtown Manhattan.
The conference aims to explore the transfer of knowledge and sharing of perspectives between experienced professionals and newer practitioners in the conflict resolution community. Key topics include adapting conflict resolution practices to contemporary challenges, maintaining relevance in a rapidly changing world, and fostering collaboration across organizations and disciplines.
A highlight of the in-person event is a fireside chat featuring honorees Damali Peterman and Maurice Q. Robinson. Moderated by ACR-GNY President Nick Pozek, this discussion will delve into their experiences in law, mediation, education, and advocacy, focusing on passing knowledge to the next generation of conflict resolvers. The evening will include light refreshments and a reception following the program.
The conference is designed for conflict resolution professionals, educators, scholars, and students interested in advancing their understanding and practice in the field. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with thought leaders, participate in skill-building sessions, and network with peers to enhance their professional development.
Speakers(13)
Ata Türkfiliz
Damali Peterman
CEO at BreakthroughADR
Damali Peterman is a conflict resolution expert, award-winning bestselling author, and CEO of BreakthroughADR, a global firm transforming how individuals and organizations navigate conflict and achieve workplace harmony. With over 20 years of experience as a lawyer, mediator, and educator, Damali is also a distinguished mediator, arbitrator, and ombudsman with JAMS, the largest private provider of alternative dispute resolution services in the world. She is the author of the award-winning and bestselling book 'Negotiating While Black: Be Who You Are to Get What You Want', published by Penguin Random House in North America and Bonnier Books internationally, where it is available in over 72 countries. Named by Forbes as one of '10 Books That Will Make You A Better Negotiator,' the book has been celebrated for its insights on overcoming bias, embracing authenticity, and excelling in negotiations. A passionate educator, Damali was an adjunct professor at Howard University School of Law and is a respected judge for global mediation competitions. She travels the globe leading accredited mediation trainings, workshops, online courses, and keynotes that empower individuals and organizations to turn conflict into collaboration. From boardrooms to classrooms to communities, Damali is committed to building a world where empathy, fairness, and understanding thrive.
Erika Rey-Castro
Isabella Cuevas Celis
Jessica Laus
Josue Loyer
Maurice Q. Robinson
Assistant Director of Workforce Equity & EEO Compliance at Port Authority of New York & New Jersey
Maurice Q. Robinson, Esq. is an employment attorney, EEO/DEI compliance leader, and dispute resolution professional with deep experience in workplace equity, civil rights compliance, internal investigations, and conflict resolution. He serves as Assistant Director of Workforce Equity & EEO Compliance for the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey, where he leads EEO compliance across one of the nation’s most complex bi-state public infrastructure systems. He previously served as EEO & Fair Housing Officer and Executive Agency Counsel for the New York City Housing Authority. Mr. Robinson is a former Fellow of the American Arbitration Association’s A. Leon Higginbotham Program and a JAMS Diversity Fellow, and he has taught law and dispute resolution for nearly two decades as an adjunct professor.
Nick Pozek
President at ACR-GNY
Nick Pozek is the President of the Association for Conflict Resolution Greater New York (ACR-GNY).
Patrik Petrosyan
Pauline Melvin
Polly García
Rodney (Rod) M. Moore
Wa Payeye Kizito
Event Details
- Date
- June 9-12, 2026
- 4 days
- Location
- 🇺🇸 New York, United States
- American Arbitration Association - International Centre for Dispute Resolution
- Pricing
- $35 - $190
- Audience
- Conflict resolution professionals, educators, scholars, students
- CLE Credits
- CLE accreditation pending
- Attendees
- 200+