With the increase in violence over the past few decades, academic and human development practitioners have tried to better understand the dynamics of conflict and develop effective intervention and prevention strategies. There is an ever-deepening appreciation for the mediation process. The mediation process is a powerful problem-solving and educational tool since it utilizes the parties themselves to develop an agreement to resolve the conflict. Student development professionals are ideally suited to learn the skills of effective mediation. They already understand empathic listening, reframing, and human dynamics. They need only learn the theory and practice of the mediation process itself. Mediation is also promoted as an ideal method for dealing with issues of culture clash and cultural misunderstanding. The mediation process can help to break down stereotypes and to develop an appreciation for the uniqueness and richness of the other person. Student development professionals should acquire the training necessary to be certified, become mediators on campus, and train faculty and students in the skills of alternative dispute resolution. As an additional step, mediation programs could be developed that would not merely respond to conflict as it arises, but proactively work to transform issues of conflict into opportunities for developing cultural sensitivity and life-enhancing skills. (Contains 12 references.) (GCP)