Susan Deveney

Born and raised in Boston, Massachusetts, Susan Deveney embarked on her academic journey at the University of Bridgeport in Connecticut, where she graduated summa cum laude with dual majors in Political Science and Psychology. This solid foundation in the social sciences ignited her passion for understanding and resolving human conflicts. Recognition of her academic excellence came through her induction into the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society and receiving the prestigious Dana Scholar Award. She furthered her education at Suffolk University Law School in Boston, earning a Juris Doctor degree, which paved the way for her legal and mediation career.

Founding Conflict Resolution Training Inc. 

 
In 2010, Susan founded Conflict Resolution Training Inc. (CRT), where she serves as the Chief Executive and Head Instructor. This initiative was born from her desire to provide innovative educational tools to improve communication and dispute-resolution skills within organizations and between individuals. Based in the United States, CRT has developed a reputation for excellence, offering professional development and continuing education programs focusing on emotional intelligence, mindfulness, diversity, inclusion, and leadership in difficult conversations.

Legal Career and Mediation Practice  

Before fully committing to CRT, Susan had a successful legal and mediation practice from 2001 to 2016, specializing in disability law, family and business disputes, and employment law. Her approach emphasized mediation as a strategic tool to resolve conflicts amicably and efficiently, thus avoiding lengthy litigation processes. Her expertise also extended to workplace investigations and designing systems to prevent litigation, showcasing her proactive approach to conflict management.

Specialization in Mediation and Conflict Resolution  

Her expertise in conflict resolution is extensive, covering areas such as divorce and family mediation, particular education mediation, and workplace conflict resolution. She has designed and facilitated numerous workshops to effectively train professionals to handle sensitive negotiations and mediation. Her programs help mediators develop skills in empathy, listening, and crafting agreements that satisfy all parties involved.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion  

A significant aspect of Susan Deveney's work involves creating inclusive programs that reflect workplace and broader community diversity. Her training modules emphasize understanding and leveraging cultural differences to foster a more inclusive and equitable work environment. These programs resolve conflicts and build stronger, more cohesive teams.

Community Engagement and Advocacy Efforts  

Susan is deeply committed to community service, which is evident in her efforts to secure funding for conflict resolution programs in Rhode Island's K-12 schools. Her community activities extend to tutoring ESL students and participating in career days at local schools, aiming to inspire and educate the next generation about the benefits of conflict resolution and legal careers.

Innovative Educational Initiatives  

In 2024, Susan launched two notable initiatives reflecting her commitment to addressing specific educational needs in conflict resolution. The Special Education Mediation Workshop aims to help parents and educators collaboratively resolve disputes related to Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), ensuring that students receive the appropriate support. Additionally, the Elder Care Facilitation Workshop assists caregivers and families in developing comprehensive life plans that address all aspects of an elder's well-being.

Publications and Speaking Engagements  

As an author, Susan has contributed significantly to the field of conflict resolution with publications like "The Mediator's Guide to Writing Effective Memoranda of Understanding" and "Introduction to Special Education Mediation." These works are essential resources for professionals seeking practical advice on handling complex mediation scenarios. She is also a sought-after speaker at national and international conferences, where she shares her expertise on effective conflict resolution strategies.

Professional Memberships and Continuing Education  

Susan maintains active memberships in several Bar Associations and holds advanced mediation and conflict resolution certifications from institutions such as Cornell University and Harvard Business School. These credentials underscore her dedication to maintaining high professional standards and staying updated on the latest developments in her field.

Personal Life and Hobbies  

Outside of her professional life, Susan enjoys engaging in activities that promote her well-being, such as tennis and swimming. These activities provide her with the physical exercise and mental relaxation necessary to balance the demands of her career. Her passion for writing also enriches her professional contributions and serves as a personal outlet for creativity and expression.

Throughout her career, Susan Deveney has demonstrated a profound dedication to advancing conflict resolution through education, professional development, and community engagement. Her leadership at CRT, her innovative educational programs, and her extensive contributions to the community have established her as a pivotal figure in the field, committed to enhancing the quality of interactions in both professional settings and personal relationships.