Melissa Kinzler, Keynote Speaker, at podium.
Annual Mediator Appreciation Dinner in Southern California 2025.

  • Certification in Mediation and Conflict Management
    Harvard Law School
    Program on Negotiation
    View Video

    Certification in Negotiation and Dispute Resolution
    Harvard Law School
    Program on Negotiation 
    View Video

    Evidence Handling Certification
    Department of Justice California
    Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (CLETS)
    Compliance Information and Training

    California Rules of Conduct Certification
    Certified in California Rules of Conduct by The Judicial Branch of California

    Department of Justice Certification
    Certified DOJ Community Conflict Facilitator by US Department of Justice

    DRPA Certification
    Dispute Resolution Programs Act
    Certified California Dispute Resolution Provider
    Certificate in Mediation, Conciliation & Facilitation

    New York Law School CLE

    Ethics for Court-Appointed Neutrals

  • Commemorative Sculpture
    presented by Victor Baba Jr.,
    Regional Leader, Weinstein Foundation (Africa), Peacebuilding. Gifted in appreciation and recognition of collaborative contributions to international peacebuilding. 2025

    Certificate of Appreciation for Outstanding Quality
    Admin Hearing Officer ( Admin Judge)
    Presented by Hydee Feldstein, Deputy City Attorney
    City of Los Angeles, California
    Oct 2025

    Certificate of Congressional Recognition
    U.S. Congress
    Honored by the House of Representatives
    Mediation, November 2024

    Certificate of Recognition
    California State Legislature
    Honored by California State Legislature
    Mediation, December 2024

    Certificate of Recognition
    Dispute Resolution Center of Riverside County, California, for Mediation.
    Presented by Riverside County
    Chairman Chuck Washington
    Chairman Manuel Perez
    Supervisor Kevin Jeffries (1st District)
    Karen Spiegel (2nd District)
    Dr. Yxstian Gutierrez (5th District)

    Mediator Appreciation Award
    Community Action Partnership of Riverside County

    Golden Badge
    Top 1% Conflict Management Linkedin.com Nov 2024

    Golden Badge
    Top 2% Conflict Resolution Linkedin.com Sept 2024

  • Harvard Law School
    Program on Negotiation
    > Earned Certificate: Negotiation and Dispute Resolution
    > Earned Certificate: Mediation and Conflict Management

    Master’s Degree in Negotiation, Conflict Resolution and Peace-Building
    California State University
    DH - Los Angeles County

    Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology
    Cal Poly Humboldt
    Arcata California


  • Academy of Court-Appointed Neutrals (ACAN) 2024 – 2025
    The Academy of Court-Appointed Neutrals (ACAN) unites professionals engaged in court-appointed mediation, arbitration, and other neutral roles. Membership offers access to an esteemed network and specialized resources that support excellence in alternative dispute resolution. ACAN members are recognized for their skill, integrity, and commitment to ethical practice. For those striving to make a meaningful impact within court-appointed ADR, ACAN provides unparalleled opportunities for growth, connection, and professional distinction.

    International Academy of Mediators (IAM) 2024 – 2025
    Membership in the International Academy of Mediators (IAM) is a distinguished honor reserved for accomplished mediators recognized as leaders in the field. The IAM promotes the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and excellence in mediation. Admission is by invitation only, extended to individuals with a demonstrated record of achievement, ethical practice, and dedication to advancing the profession.

    American Bar Association (ABA)
    Dispute Resolution Committee ·2022 – 2024 · Associated with Trusted Mediators International
    As a member of the ABA’s Dispute Resolution Committee, professionals gain access to cutting-edge research, tools, and training on mediation, arbitration, negotiation, and related methods. The Committee offers valuable opportunities to engage with peers and experts through conferences, webinars, and workshops. Members also stay informed on emerging trends and policy developments in the field, contributing to initiatives that shape the future of dispute resolution.

    Association for Conflict Resolution (ACR) 2022-2023
    Member · Associated with Trusted Mediators International
    The Association for Conflict Resolution (ACR) is a global community of mediators, facilitators, educators, and peacebuilders dedicated to advancing the understanding and practice of constructive conflict engagement. Its mission is to give voice to the full spectrum of quality conflict resolution options across diverse contexts—from schools and corporations to courts, nonprofits, and government agencies. ACR fosters professional development, inclusivity, and collaboration across disciplines, uniting practitioners committed to building a more just and peaceful society.

    Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA)
    Program Committee Member · Oct 2010 – Oct 2013 · Associated with ER Experts
    The Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) serves as a vital hub for commercial real estate professionals, offering education, advocacy, and industry connections. Worked collaboratively with more than 300 professionals, including developers, attorneys, contractors and civic leaders. Played a key role in designing programs, forecasting sessions, and speaker programs that featured prominent figures from both the business, legal and political communities. Members benefit from access to extensive professional development programs covering sustainability, asset management, and tenant relations. Through conferences, regional meetings, and local chapters, BOMA fosters collaboration and knowledge sharing among industry leaders. The association also represents members’ interests at local, state, and federal levels, providing insights into regulatory and policy issues that impact the real estate sector.

    Real Estate Alliance of Professionals (REAP) – JFSA
    Programs Committee 2010 - 2012 · Associated with Berkshire Hathaway
    As a member of the REAP Programs Committee, served on a 12-person executive team responsible for organizing monthly events for more than 150 professionals, including developers, attorneys, contractors, and civic leaders. Played a key role in designing debates, forecasting sessions, and speaker programs that featured prominent figures from both the business and political communities.

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