The application for scholarships will be available in January 2026. 

The Scholarship:

The Andrew R. Pizzi Virginia Mediation Network (VMN) Scholarship was established in 2024 as a tribute to the late Andrew R. Pizzi, an accomplished mediator passionate about VMN, the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) field (including conflict resolution, coaching, facilitation, and peacebuilding), and his clients. Andy was a delight to work with, a leader with a vision, a great sense of humor, and a very dependable person.

The scholarship provides eligible Virginia students up to $1,000 in financial assistance towards their education in a field with a focus on dispute resolution and/or attendance at a recognized ADR conference or ADR training/workshop. It also provides a complimentary two-year VMN membership.

Three scholarships will be granted to enrolled students: one to an undergraduate student, one to a graduate student, and one to a law student.

Goal:

The Andrew R. Pizzi VMN Scholarship aims to support Virginia undergraduate, graduate, and law students dedicated to a career giving back to the community through Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). It empowers students to pursue their education and training in conflict resolution, enhance their skills, and foster their ability to promote peace and justice within their communities.

Eligibility:

1. Applicants must be a graduate, undergraduate, or law student enrolled full-time or part-time and in good standing at an academic institution located in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

2. Applicants must comply with the application process requirements.

Selection Criteria:

The following are criteria considered in the selection process:

1. Interest in Conflict Resolution as part of their formal education: Applicants must express a genuine interest in conflict resolution and demonstrate how they plan to utilize their formal education and training to contribute positively to the field.
2. Commitment to Community Service: Applicants must be committed to giving back to their communities through ADR initiatives or related activities.
3. Leadership Potential: Preference will be given to candidates who have demonstrated leadership skills or have held leadership positions in community service organizations or ADR-related activities.
4. Access to Justice: Preference will be given to applicants that demonstrate a commitment to developing or practicing ADR methodologies that are more available, accessible, equitable, trauma-aware, and inclusive. This aims to make these processes more appealing to underserved and underrepresented individuals.
5. Financial Need: While not the sole determinant, financial need may be considered in the selection process.
6. VMN Service: Applicants must agree to serve on any VMN committee for at least a year.

Application Process (click button below to apply):

1. Applicants must submit an essay of at most 600 words addressing the selection criteria. 

2. Applicants must submit the application form.

3. Applicants must have one reference letter submitted from someone who can speak to the applicant's potential to fulfill the selection criteria.

Evaluation:

1. The applicant must show commitment to ADR, as evidenced by their essay.

2. The applicant's identifying information, such as name and school, will be removed from applications when the Scholarship Selection Committee reviews applications. 

Deadline: mid-summer 2026

Announcement: The awards will be presented during the annual meeting at VMN's 2026 Fall Conference.

Please contact Cindy Carlson at virginiamediationnetwork@gmail.com with any questions.