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Melanie Rowen

About
Melanie

Melanie Rowen brings together a background in civil rights law and a deep commitment to inclusive, understanding-based approaches to conflict.

 

Her journey began in litigation, first in corporate settings, and then advocating for LGBTQ+ communities on issues like relationship recognition and employment discrimination. Over time, she saw how transformative it could be when people engage conflict with empathy and curiosity — and shifted her focus to mediation, coaching, and communication training.


Today, Melanie supports individuals and groups in navigating difficult conversations, using approaches that include mediation, coaching, and training. She also speaks frequently at conferences and community gatherings, focusing on conflict resolution and communication skills.

 

Melanie often draws on her experience working with dynamics around gender, sexual orientation, race, disability, and non-traditional relationship structures — helping people build skills for connection across difference. With experience in civil rights and business law, legal education, and professional development and coaching, she brings a grounded, thoughtful presence to every engagement.


Whether in professional, community, or personal settings, Melanie helps people move through conflict toward deeper understanding.

Education

University of Chicago

J.D., 2004
B.A., 1999

Community Involvement

National Association for Law Placement
Board of Directors
2022-2024

Transgender Law Center
Board of Directors     
2012 to 2020

Center for Understanding in Conflict
Board of Directors; Trainer  
2018 to present

 

National MS Society

Government Relations Advisory Council

2009 to present

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Melanie Rowen, J.D.

Mediation | Coaching | Training

San Francisco Bay Area and Beyond

info@rowenmediation.com

(510) 519-7067

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