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The Chalon Campus became a national stage for legal argument and student leadership on November 22–23 as Mount Saint Mary’s University hosted the American Moot Court Association Southern California Regional Tournament. Over the two-day event, 32 teams from 15 universities across the country competed in rigorous rounds of oral argument, making it one of the region’s most competitive undergraduate pre-law events of the year.

Moot court is a simulated appellate proceeding in which students argue a hypothetical legal case before a panel of judges. Competitors research constitutional issues and deliver timed oral arguments, developing critical skills in legal research, persuasive advocacy and strategic thinking.

The Mount’s Moot Court team demonstrated exceptional preparation, professionalism, and teamwork throughout the weekend. Team captain Isabela Pineda ’26 and Tajelle Denise Ruth Freeman ’26 participated in their third consecutive regional competition, joined by Blaise Rodriguez ’27, Brooke Fadipe ’26, Nadia Hamarneh ’28, Ava Martin ’28, Leslie Martinez ’26, Hope Luna ’26, Yadira Piñon ’28, and Michelle Sierra ’29.

Teammates Brooke Fadipe and Tajelle Denise Ruth Freeman advanced to the Sweet Sixteen round, ultimately securing a ninth-place finish in a highly competitive national field.

Reflecting on the experience, Fadipe shared how the competition deepened her commitment to pursuing a legal career. “Competing at Moot Court has really strengthened my research and argumentative skills and given me a true look into oral arguments and legal writing. It has helped me build confidence in understanding complex topics and advocating for what I believe in,” said Fadipe, who plans to pursue law school after graduation. “I am especially grateful for the mentorship of professor Melanie Sava and former professor Helen Boutrous. Their support has helped me both realize and further develop my skills.”

 “I am so honored to coach this incredible group of students,” said Melanie Sava ’17, JD, assistant professor and director of the pre-law program. “Their work ethic, perseverance, and support for one another continue to inspire me. Hosting teams from across the country allowed our students to shine not only in competition, but as exemplary ambassadors of a program that is one of the cornerstones of pre-law education at the Mount.”

The tournament was co-hosted with the University of Southern California’s Moot Court program, which won the championship in a final round judged by a distinguished panel of five.

The competition was made possible through the support of alumnae, attorneys and friends of the University who volunteered as judges, reflecting the strength of the Mount’s extended legal network. Among the volunteers were attorneys Scarlett Zambada ’22, Mia Mitchell ’07, Christina Imre ’72, former Mount professor Helen Boutrous, PhD, JD, Anne McIntyre, and Sava herself, who helped guide and mentor students throughout the weekend.

With growing student participation, strong alumnae engagement, and continued recognition from the American Moot Court Association, Mount Saint Mary’s pre-law program continues to provide students with invaluable experience and preparation for future careers in law.