Alumni
Student Testimonials
What is a typical day for you?
"There is no such thing as a typical day for me as an Associate Professor at Eastern Mennonite University. On any given day, I may find a request from the National Peace Corps Association to prepare a list of Conflict Resolution Resources to add to their Peace Advocacy Newsletter listserve, or a request to deliver conflict resolution training to the employees of our county, or to mediate an issue between the USDA and a loan recipient."
Anita Vestal, Ph.D.
Graduate of SHSS-Department of Conflict Analysis and Resolution"I guided my studies toward Business Consulting and currently work in the area of Organization Development. My typical day is spent at my job as an internal consultant for a large healthcare organization. I find myself consulting, coaching, training, and providing platforms for all of the employees for the purpose of helping everyone make the most of their time and energy at work."
Brian Rosenberg, Ph.D.
Graduate of SHSS-Department of Family Therapy
What have been the most valuable assets you gained professionally and personally as a student/graduate of the program?
"Practicums in the clinic (BTI), with live supervision behind the mirror and a team of 5 or 6 people working on solutions from different viewpoints and backgrounds. Like they say, six heads are better than one! Practicums are essentially the foundation where beginning students can become comfortable using their therapeutic skills in the room and working with clients."
Chrissy Virzi, M.S
Graduate of SHSS-Department of Family Therapy"A degree in conflict management is extremely marketable. Conflict is inherent in every institution and organization in our world. With knowledge of both the theory and practical application of conflict resolution, your skills and abilities are invaluable in a multitude of settings."
Rafe Vecere, Ph.D.
Graduate of SHSS-Department of Conflict Analysis and Resolution"This program expanded my horizons and views about life and death. Working in a medical setting allowed me to grow in my understanding of the connection in a medical work related setting. This allowed me, the therapist, to collaboratively work with all the people involved in patient care, including the medical staff."
Ilana Nativ, Ph.D.
Family Systems Health Care"The program works from a systemic model which allows us to appreciate all the models... it allows me to look at a system... It’s taught me to think on a much more global perspective. You develop as a well-rounded professional. I am a clinician, researcher, teacher, and supervisor because of the program. I love what I do. NSU/SHSS is looked at as a unique program, because of its innovative ways of teaching."
Arlene Gordon, Ph.D.
Graduate of SHSS-Department of Family Therapy
What was the highlight of your experience with the school (SHSS)?
"Group work; meeting people from all over the world and learning about the different cultures; finding common practices and beliefs."
Debra Nixon, Ph.D.
Graduate of SHSS-Department of Family Therapy"Participating in practicum was by far my most rewarding experience at SHSS. I had the opportunity to be involved with a local human relations organization, the National Conference for Community and Justice (NCCJ). At NCCJ I facilitated workshops on a variety of topics, such as racism, heterosexism, classism and sexism with high school students for the Broward County School District. I still recall my time with NCCJ fondly and continue to look for other ways to recapture that experience."
Gabriel Hermelin, M.S.
Graduate of SHSS-Department of Conflict Analysis and Resolution"Before entering the Family Systems Health Care specialization program, I had certain assumptions and beliefs about illness. Now I have been able to better understand the diversity among family and cultural beliefs about illness and grief. I have been able to work effectively in medical settings and become a vital part of that system."
Candace Kehl, M.S.
Family Systems Health Care
What characteristics do you feel are important to possess in your field?
"Good communication skills, an open mind, a true understanding of fairness and justice, and understanding of yourself. You also need an appreciation for the differences in others as well as differences of other cultures."
Natasha Marinoff, M.S.
Graduate of SHSS-Department of Conflict Analysis and Resolution
What do you enjoy most about what you do?
"The chance to make a difference in the business of my clients. I have never been a proponent of litigation, but I can now see that sometimes litigation is the only face saving measure afforded to some clients. But before things get that far with polarized positions and negative attitudes at every meeting, I can change things. The power to change the outcome or course of a dispute for clients is really great"!
Kathleen Harmon, Ph.D.
Department of Conflict Analysis and Resolution
