A Journey in Conflict Resolution

Ross Geoghegan, a retired mathematics professor from Binghamton, New York, found himself drawn into the world of conflict resolution and mediation, and eventually practicing in King County. His journey began long before, as a seasoned educator at the State University of New York, where he taught and chaired the mathematics department before retiring.

“I was sliding towards retirement,” he chuckled, reflecting on his transition. “I knew about dispute resolution from a friend back in Binghamton.”

In 2019, Ross underwent training with Accord, Binghamton’s own dispute resolution center, where he learned the ropes of mediation. Initially handling cases involving custody and small claims, his role evolved with the pandemic’s onset, pushing proceedings online. Courts increasingly required mediation before legal battles, a shift Ross embraced cautiously, aware of the emotional stakes involved.

“When Covid hit, everything went online,” he noted. “I focused mostly on family cases, trying to find common ground in difficult situations.”

Moving to Seattle in the fall of 2021 to be closer to his grandchildren, Ross eagerly sought out opportunities at The Dispute Resolution Center of King County (KCDRC). He joined our eviction mediation program under the ERPP initiative, aimed at preventing eviction amidst economic turmoil.

“One case that stands out,” he shared thoughtfully, “was an older woman facing eviction… and it was heartbreaking.”

Through mediation, Ross sought not just conflict resolutions but also emotional support for vulnerable tenants like the older woman. His efforts under ERPP were impactful until legislative changes ended the program in mid-2023, prompting a shift to VISTA, a voluntary mediation initiative for landlord-tenant conflicts created by KCDRC.

“VISTA has been a bit slower,” he admitted. “Many landlords aren’t keen on mediation unless it’s mandated. I would describe ERPP as eviction mediation, and VISTA as tenant-landlord mediation. The cases I’ve had in VISTA, there have been one or two that have involved avoiding eviction, but most of them are disputes between landlord and tenant, where the tenant is not in danger of eviction, but each is angry with the other, or one is angry with the other over something.”

Beyond mediation, Ross remains active in research mathematics, collaborating both nationally and internationally, while cherishing time with his grandchildren- the primary reason for his move to Seattle.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to be close to family,” he remarked warmly. “It’s been a fulfilling chapter.”

Looking ahead, Ross contemplates further contributions to mediation, considering small claims as a potential next step. His journey underscores the transformative impact of mediation in resolving disputes with empathy and understanding. Ultimately, his dedication to mediation stands as a testament to the power of compassionate conflict resolution in building stronger communities. KCDRC feels incredible lucky to have such passionate and dedicated volunteers, Ross being a primary example.

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This article was originally posted in the KCDRC newsletter.