Matthew Carroll is a dedicated educator and leader in the field of mediation. He serves as an Adjunct Lecturer at Northwestern University’s School of Professional Studies in Chicago, Illinois, where he co-instructs the Divorce Mediation class with Sandra Crawford, JD. He also teaches at Aurora University’s Scott Center for Online and Graduate Studies in Aurora, Illinois, introducing future mediators to the field.
Matthew’s passion for training and educating mediators is evident in his numerous contributions to the field. Through Keystone Mediation, he developed an Advanced Divorce Mediation program, bringing together a group of highly talented and respected professionals from various fields. Additionally, he created a six-part mediation skills workshop series, showcasing his innovative approach to professional development.
In his role as the current President of the Indiana Association of Mediators, Matthew leads a diverse group of professionals, advocating for increased application of mediation across the State of Indiana. He is the co-owner of Keystone Mediation in Dyer, Indiana, where he has established a thriving practice addressing a wide range of disputes, including divorce, parenting plans and paternity, property division, child support, post-decree issues, prenuptial agreements, small business conflicts, couples mediation, and family mediation. Matthew’s approach focuses on facilitating effective communication between parties, believing that when people truly understand each other, they’re more likely to find mutually acceptable solutions.
Matthew is a Certified Practitioner with the Academy of Professional Family Mediators and a registered Parenting Coordinator with the Supreme Court of Indiana. His memberships in the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts, Academy of Professional Family Mediators, American Bar Association, and the Lake County (IN) Bar Association underscore his commitment to professional excellence.
A sought-after speaker, Matthew has presented at seminars for the American Bar Association, Illinois Institute for Continuing Legal Education, Maryland Judiciary – Program for Mediator Excellence, Southern California Mediation Association, and the Indiana Association of Mediators. He recently spearheaded the development of a peer mediation program for local schools, demonstrating his dedication to expanding mediation’s reach.
Matthew’s unique background as a Grammy® and Emmy® Award-winning musician and former labor negotiator for the American Guild of Musical Artists brings a creative, harmonious approach to conflict resolution. This experience in high-stakes negotiations and collaborative artistry influences his mediation philosophy: that even in discord, there’s potential for resolution and growth.
Committed to community service, Matthew volunteers with the Center for Conflict Resolution in Chicago, Illinois and the Community Justice and Mediation Center in Bloomington, Indiana. He is dedicated to mentoring aspiring mediators, having mentored professionals in advanced mediation techniques.
Matthew’s approach to mediation is characterized by empathetic listening, creative problem-solving, and a deep understanding of human dynamics. His diverse life experiences – as a father, husband, musician, hiker, sports enthusiast, and arts advocate – enrich his perspective and enhance his ability to connect with clients from all walks of life.
With a proven track record of resolving complex disputes and a passion for advancing the field of mediation through both practice and education, Matthew Carroll stands as a respected and innovative leader in the mediation community.