Suzanne Ghais

Suzanne Ghais spearheads initiatives to address complex issues in conflict resolution and international relations as an Adjunct Professorial Lecturer at American University's School of International Service. With a Ph.D. in International Relations from American University, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her students. Her academic journey also includes an M.S. in Conflict Analysis & Resolution from George Mason University and a B.A. from Brown University, providing her with a solid foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of her field. Before embarking on her doctoral studies, Dr. Ghais honed her skills as a solo mediation and facilitation consultant, where she tackled workplace and public policy issues with a focus on effective communication and resolution strategies. Her experience at CDR Associates further enriched her understanding of the dynamics involved in conflict resolution, allowing her to develop innovative approaches to mediation and negotiation. Dr. Ghais is the author of "Extreme Facilitation: Guiding Groups through Controversy and Complexity," a seminal work that explores advanced techniques for leading groups through challenging discussions and decision-making processes. Her book has been widely recognized for its practical insights and has become a valuable resource for professionals in the field. In addition to her writing, Dr. Ghais is a seasoned educator and trainer, having conducted numerous courses on mediation, facilitation, arbitration, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills. Her teaching style emphasizes experiential learning, encouraging students to engage with real-world scenarios and develop practical skills that can be applied in various contexts. Dr. Ghais's research interests include arbitration, negotiation, mediation, conflict resolution, and facilitation. She is particularly interested in exploring how these processes can be adapted to address emerging challenges in international relations and public policy. Her work continues to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in these areas, making her a respected figure in the academic and professional communities. Through her teaching, writing, and research, Dr. Suzanne Ghais remains committed to fostering a deeper understanding of conflict resolution and equipping the next generation of leaders with the tools they need to navigate complex global issues effectively.