Barbara Johannessen

Barbara Johannessen serves as a Conflict Engagement Specialist at Wayne State University's College of Liberal Arts and Sciences while holding an Adjunct Professor appointment, teaching dispute resolution courses across multiple departments including Psychology, Criminal Justice, Public Safety, and Political Science.

Her academic and professional credentials include:

• B.A. in Economics/Management from Albion College (1982)
• J.D. from Wayne State University Law School (1990)
• Membership in the State Bars of Michigan and California
• Certification as General Civil Mediation Trainer by the Michigan State Court Administrative Office

Specializing in practical conflict resolution, her work bridges legal theory and real-world application through mediation, facilitation, coaching, and arbitration. She actively contributes to legal education as a periodic presenter for the Institute of Continuing Legal Education, Oakland County Bar Association's LACHES publication, and State Bar of Michigan ADR Section conferences.

Her exceptional contributions to the field have been recognized through:

• State Bar of Michigan ADR Section Distinguished Service Award
• Southeast Michigan Chapter of ACR Pioneer Award
• Family Mediation Council Service Award

Teaching graduate-level dispute resolution courses (PSY5710, CRJ5994, PCS5000, PS5890) since Winter 2023 through 2025, she integrates professional mediation experience with academic instruction, emphasizing practical skills development for students in multiple disciplines.