Faculty Profile: Iman Hyder-Eliz

Iman Hyder-Eliz is the Regional Vice President of the Construction Division at the American Arbitration Association® (AAA®), where she leads construction arbitration and mediation services across the Southeast and parts of the Midwest. She oversees the administration of Large Complex Construction Cases, manages recruitment and development of experienced construction neutrals, and leads strategic outreach and education efforts to support attorneys, construction professionals, and industry organizations. Iman joined the AAA in 2017 as a Director of ADR Services in the Commercial Division. Her effectiveness in handling high-value business disputes and her strong client relationships led to her transition to the Construction Division in 2023, where she was promoted to Vice President and then Regional Vice President. In this role, she focuses on promoting best practices, strengthening client engagement, and supporting innovation in arbitration and mediation processes. She regularly develops and delivers CLE programming, webinars, and trainings that promote efficiency, fairness, and advocacy excellence in ADR. Iman is also involved in initiatives to incorporate emerging tools—such as AI-powered scheduling and eDiscovery protocols—into arbitration proceedings, helping streamline case management and improve outcomes. Before joining the AAA, Iman worked as a mediator for several years, resolving disputes in family law and real estate. That experience shaped her people-centered approach and her commitment to accessible, thoughtful dispute resolution. A proud native of the Dallas–Fort Worth area, Iman holds a Master’s Degree in Dispute Resolution and Conflict Management from Southern Methodist University and a particularly in the construction space, where effective dispute resolution is critical to preserving time, resources, and relationships.