Four Oregon Law students were invited to participate at the 2019 Conflict Prevention and Resolution International Mediation Competition, the only competition in Latin America of its kind. The event took place in Sao Paulo, Brazil andprovides a unique opportunity for students to learn and practice mediation and negotiation skills through role-playing.

There were a total of 18 universities from around the globe and this was the first time that the UO was represented at the competition. In fact, only four law schools from the United States participated, including: Oregon Law, Harvard Law School, Columbia Law School and American University Washington College of Law.

The Oregon Law team consisted of Brittany Banna, Nadine Philp and Belen Vega - all masters students in the Conflict and Dispute Resolution (CRES) program. Jurisprudence student, Chantal Guzman-Schlager was also on the team. John Inglish, who is the CRES program director served as the team’s coach.

“The team worked hard to prepare and took seriously this opportunity to represent the UO,” said Inglish.

While, the team did not place at the competition, Inglish points out that just getting invited was an accomplishment in its own right. “The most valuable aspect of the trip for me was watching our team of four students perform with such poise, professionalism, and competence on an international stage.”

In addition to the competition, students visited Sao Vicente--a community of Guarani Native Brazilians. Students were invited by the Chief into the ceremonial community meeting space to learn how the community had been engaging in a mediation process with the local government. They also visited mediation programs in both the state and federal courts of appeal, met with local judges, spoke with mediators on staff, and were able to observe mediation in progress.

Chantal Guzman-Schlager, who is graduating this spring says that she was proud to represent the University of Oregon in Sao Paolo. “As someone who is interested in business law and international law, these competitions are essential opportunities to connect with individuals working in these relevant fields,” said Chantal Guzman-Schlager.

Following graduation, Guzman-Schlager will serve as a Judicial Clerk for the Honorable Lauren S. Holland at the Lane County Circuit Court.

The public is invited to hear students speak about their experiences at a "Lunch and Learn" on May, 2019 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the UO Knight Law Center, Lewis Lounge 408.

By Rayna Jackson, School of Law Communications