Bridget McCormack, J.D.
President and CEO | American Arbitration Association
Professional Overview
Bridget McCormack is a seasoned legal professional with a distinguished career spanning the judiciary, academia, and now leadership in alternative dispute resolution. As the President and CEO of the American Arbitration Association, she leverages her extensive experience in conflict resolution, strategic decision-making, and judicial oversight to drive innovation and excellence in the field of arbitration.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the President and CEO of the American Arbitration Association since February 2023, Bridget is responsible for overseeing the strategic direction, operations, and continued growth of this prominent alternative dispute resolution organization. She is committed to enhancing the accessibility, efficiency, and effectiveness of arbitration services, ensuring that the association remains at the forefront of dispute resolution best practices.
Career Progression
Bridget's career trajectory has been marked by a steadfast commitment to the legal profession and a passion for conflict resolution. Prior to her current role, she served as the Chief Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court from 2019 to 2023, where she led the court in upholding the rule of law and ensuring the fair and impartial administration of justice. Before her tenure as Chief Justice, Bridget served as a Justice on the Michigan Supreme Court since 2013.
Bridget's academic background includes a distinguished career as a Professor at the University of Michigan from 1998 to 2012, where she specialized in criminal law and procedure, as well as civil rights and civil liberties. She also held a prestigious Fellowship at Yale University from 1996 to 1998, further enhancing her legal expertise and scholarly contributions.
Academic Background
Bridget McCormack holds a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from Yale Law School, where she graduated with academic distinction. Her legal education and training have provided a strong foundation for her successful career in the legal field, including her current leadership role at the American Arbitration Association.
Areas of Expertise
Bridget's areas of expertise include:
- Alternative dispute resolution
- Conflict resolution and mediation
- Judicial oversight and decision-making
- Criminal law and procedure
- Civil rights and civil liberties
Professional Impact
Throughout her career, Bridget has made significant contributions to the legal profession and the broader community. As a Justice and Chief Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court, she played a pivotal role in upholding the integrity of the judicial system and ensuring equitable access to justice. Her involvement in high-profile cases and her commitment to judicial ethics have earned her the respect of her peers and the legal community.
In her current role as the President and CEO of the American Arbitration Association, Bridget is poised to drive further innovation and excellence in the field of alternative dispute resolution, strengthening the organization's reputation and its ability to provide effective conflict resolution services to individuals and organizations across the country.
Conclusion
Bridget McCormack's extensive experience, exceptional legal expertise, and strong leadership skills make her uniquely qualified to serve as the President and CEO of the American Arbitration Association. Her commitment to upholding the rule of law, promoting fair and impartial dispute resolution, and driving positive change in the legal field positions her as a highly respected and impactful leader in the industry.