3:43 p.m., Feb. 23, 2010----Fran Fletcher, assistant policy scientist in the Institute for Public Administration (IPA) at the University of Delaware, has been elected president of the Delaware Conflict Resolution Network (DCRN), a nonprofit organization whose mission is to explore opportunities for creating, expanding and promoting peacemaking strategies for Delawareans.

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The DCRN is a collaborative partnership of individuals who are committed to advancing the understanding, availability and utilization of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) options through education, public policy and advocacy.

In the fall of 2007, at the invitation of Fletcher, who works in IPA's Conflict Resolution Program, those within the state who had an interest in ADR gathered for an initial discussion. This diverse group included individuals from faith-based organizations, nonprofit agencies, state and local government, police agencies, and higher education, as well as consultants and attorneys.

As enthusiasm grew throughout 2008-09, Fletcher continued to promote and organize the meetings that culminated in the development of a formalized organization.

Meetings take place on the third Tuesday of each month at varying locations throughout the state and are free and open to the public. Each meeting begins with a networking reception followed by a short business meeting. Several meetings each year include a guest presenter who is actively working in ADR locally and nationally, followed by a question-and-answer period. Other meetings give DCRN members a chance to present on their specific areas of expertise and practice.

Past presenters have included

• Rick Grier-Reynolds, recipient of the Peacemaker Among Us award, who spoke on his travels and experiences of working for peace in many countries throughout the world.
• Ellen Tolbert, Director of Patient Relations at Beebe Medical Center and president of the Society for Healthcare Consumer Advocacy, who summarized the use of ADR strategies in health care.
• Kim Book, coordinator of Victim Voices Heard, who spoke about her program that facilitates victim-offender dialogue in cases of severe violence.
• John Jaremchuk, retired magistrate judge and mediator, who presented a review of the mediation system used in the Delaware Court of Common Pleas.

The DCRN elected officers are president, Fran Fletcher, University of Delaware; vice president, Debi Zistl, People's Place; treasurer, Terry Toliver, City of Wilmington; and secretary, Frank Ingraham, DuPont Company.

The yearly membership fee of $30 entitles one to vote on organizational issues as well as hold an officer position within the organization. If you're interested in attending or need additional information about the Delaware Conflict Resolution Network, contact Fran Fletcher (302) 831-6812.

Article by Mark Deshon