In this episode of CCA Arbitration Talk, we look ahead to a pivotal moment in the evolution of commercial arbitration: Summit II, hosted by the College of Commercial Arbitrators (CCA) on June 5, 2025, in Washington, D.C. The event marks the 100th anniversary of the Federal Arbitration Act (FAA) and brings together key stakeholders in the arbitration community to reflect, reimagine, and update commercial arbitration protocols for the next century.

CCA Arbitration Talk host Rich Silberberg is joined by two prominent voices in the field:

• Dana Welch, President of the CCA with over two decades of experience as a commercial arbitrator.
• John Barkett, Partner at Shook, Hardy & Bacon, a member of the CCA Board and an experienced commercial arbitrator, who has helped lead the development of Summit II.

Together, they explore:

• The origins and impact of Summit I and the CCA Protocols for Expeditious, Cost-Effective Arbitration.
• How the protocols have stood the test of time—and where they need updates.
• The profound changes in arbitration over the past 15 years, including the advent of remote hearings, AI tools for parties and arbitrators, and mass arbitrations.
• The goals of Summit II: innovation and a fresh commitment to making arbitration frugal, fast, fair, and future-ready.

They also walk through the agenda for Summit II, including panel topics, academic contributions, and a look to the future of the FAA.

📍 Interested in attending? Visit the registration page.

🎟️ In-house counsel can register for free! Contact John Barkett at [email protected] for a discount code.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Summit II Registration
• CCA Website