JD, Universidad de Los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia (1995). Graduate specialist in conflict resolution, Javeriana University, Bogotá, Colombia (1996). Diploma in peace and conflict studies, Conrad Grebel College, University of Waterloo, Canada (2000). María Lucía has worked extensively on issues of conflict resolution, including posts with the Colombian presidential office and in the mayoral office of Bogotá, where she oversaw the implementation of a community-based conflict resolution program. She also worked with the ombudsman's office in the Board of Human Rights Complaints, followed by a year-long supporting role in the implementation of a project titled "Building a Culture of Peace in Colombian Schools." María Lucía has taught at the Universidad de los Andes and in the Alternative Dispute Resolution Program at the Javeriana University. In Canada, she has volunteered with the Mennonite Central Committee of Ontario and with Conflict Mediation Services of Downsview. Most recently she has undertaken a research program at the International Development Research Centre, Canada, on community and restorative justice. María is a founder of Peacebuilders International.