Irvine, Calif. – JAMS, the premier provider of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services worldwide, is pleased to announce that Joan Kessler, Esq., Ph.D., received the Loyola Law School Alumni Association Board of Governors Honor. The award was presented on April 23 at the LMU Loyola Law School Grand Reunion in Los Angeles.

The Loyola Law School Alumni Association Board of Governors Honor is presented to distinguished alumni who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to the school, the legal profession and public service. The award celebrates individuals whose careers reflect leadership and integrity and who have made a lasting impact on the legal community. The Grand Reunion brings together alumni, faculty and students, and supports the law school’s mission.

“Dr. Kessler’s has long been dedicated to advancing the legal profession and supporting Loyola Law School. This honor reflects the genuine commitment to service that she has demonstrated throughout her career, and we congratulate her on this well-deserved recognition.” 

Kimberly Taylor, JAMS CEO and president

Dr. Kessler is a JAMS neutral with nearly 20 years of experience as an ADR professional and more than 30 years of experience in the legal field. She has served as a mediator and arbitrator in a broad range of matters, including employment (individual and class action); real property; business and commercial; estate, probate and trust; insurance; and entertainment. With a Ph.D. in communications and a background in empirical research and statistical analysis, she brings a thoughtful, analytical approach to complex disputes, further informed by her experience as a jury researcher and consultant.

Throughout her career, Dr. Kessler has been known for her ability to work effectively with parties and counsel and to guide even highly contentious matters toward resolution. Her background in communications, combined with being multilingual and her understanding of various cultures, allows her to engage with diverse participants and perspectives. She has also supported graduate students through the Joan B. Kessler Award at the University of Michigan and has been named among the Most Influential Women Attorneys by the Los Angeles Business Journal.

About JAMS – The Way Forward

JAMS is the premier provider of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services worldwide, handling more than 21,000 cases annually. With 500 neutrals and 29 locations, JAMS delivers efficient, cost-effective and impartial solutions for business and legal disputes at any stage of conflict. Since its founding in 1979, its distinguished panel has included retired federal and state court judges, former litigators, transactional attorneys and other ADR professionals with deep industry and practice area experience. JAMS offers customized in-person, virtual and hybrid resolution services to provide a seamless experience through concierge-level client care, highly skilled case managers and advanced technology. 

Building on this foundation, JAMS Pathways provides organizations with early conflict resolution, facilitation and training, helping teams prevent disputes before they escalate. 

With a legacy of trust and innovation, JAMS helps parties find the way forward so they can focus on what matters most. Learn more at www.jamsadr.com and connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and the JAMS ADR blog.