Susan Deveney

Susan Deveney is a recognized leader in conflict resolution and mediation. She serves as the Chief Executive and Head Instructor at Conflict Resolution Training Inc. (CRT) in Boston, MA. Her organization delivers comprehensive professional development and continuing education programs that enhance communication and dispute-resolution skills for various professionals and organizations across the United States. Born and educated in Boston, Massachusetts, Susan excelled at the University of Bridgeport, Connecticut, earning summa cum laude honors in Political Science and Psychology. She was a member of the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society and received the Dana Scholar Award for Academic Excellence. Susan continued her education at Suffolk University Law School, earning her Juris Doctor degree. In 2010, Susan founded CRT, shaping it into a pivotal institution that provides nationwide training, certification, and custom professional development programs. These programs focus on critical skills such as emotional and social intelligence, empathy, mindfulness, diversity, and inclusion. Under her guidance, CRT has trained thousands of professionals across the United States and internationally, collaborating with a diverse array of clients, including corporations, nonprofits, and Native American tribes. Before dedicating herself fully to CRT, Susan ran her legal and mediation practice from 2001 to 2016, focusing on disability law, family and business disputes, and employment law. She specialized in mediating to help clients reach amicable resolutions and designed systems to reduce conflict in the workplace. Susan's mediation expertise is vast. She is particularly noted in divorce and family mediation, where she has significantly impacted many families and trained mediators nationwide. She also leads programs in particular education mediation and workplace conflict resolution, improving organizational culture and fostering practical communication skills among employees and management. Susan has consistently contributed to community development, securing grants for conflict resolution programs in K-12 schools in Rhode Island and engaging in volunteer activities such as ESL tutoring and local career days. She supports organizations that promote the advancement of women and children and has been actively involved in relevant legislative advocacy. Recently, Susan launched a nationwide Special Education Mediation Workshop aimed at resolving disputes over Individualized Education Plans, reflecting her commitment to educational needs. She is also set to introduce an Elder Care Facilitation Workshop to assist caregivers in developing comprehensive life plans for seniors. An accomplished writer and speaker, Susan has authored several publications, including "The Mediator's Guide to Writing Effective Memoranda of Understanding" and "Introduction to Special Education Mediation." She frequently speaks at conferences, sharing her expertise in conflict resolution. Outside of her professional life, Susan enjoys tennis, swimming, and writing, which help her maintain a balanced lifestyle. She continues to seek educational opportunities further to enhance her knowledge and expertise in her field.