Elon Law Intramural Moot Court Competition Names Top Student Advocates
By Editorial Team | June 4, 2025
Elon Law recently held its 18th Annual Intramural Moot Court Competition, where students from the Class of 2026 showcased their oral advocacy skills in a fictional federal lawsuit involving the Fair Labor Standards Act and exceptions for religious organizations.
A key case in the competition involved a 15-year-old counselor at a religious summer camp who worked past 9 p.m., leading to a Department of Labor complaint. The case raised questions about the definition of employment and the application of the ministerial exception and First Amendment.
Among the standout participants were Rachel Claffee, who secured the first position, and Elizabeth Gregory, who claimed the second spot. The top 10 oral advocates also included Lauren Collins, Cayla James, Lindsay Hetzel, Elizabeth Rowell, Jennifer Carbajal, Sierra Watkins, Audra Cote, Trey McClenny, Matt Cottrell, Isabel Craige, Gavi Taylor, and Gia Gopireddy.
The competition, which saw 86 first-year students compete, emphasized the practical skills needed for a successful legal career. Students were evaluated on their preparation, speaking ability, argument structure, and responses to judges’ questions.
Elon Law’s Vice Dean and Professor of Law, Alan Woodlief, commended the Moot Court Board for their professionalism in organizing the competition. He highlighted the high level of competition and the students’ skillful oral arguments.
The competition’s student leadership included Becca Bailey, McKenna Longo, Ashley Myers, Lillie Kieken, Caroline Lohn, Gabriella Reynolds, Sarah Ruffin, Hanna Riley, Cameron Riordan, Taylor Rockwood, Anderson Rowe, Alexis Croce, Madison Gilbert, Kelsey Greene, Adriana Hernandez, Karrington Wallace, Landon Eckard, and Saniya Pangare.
Selections for the Moot Court Board will be announced this summer, leading up to the 16th Billings, Exum & Frye National Moot Court Competition scheduled for October 16-18, 2025.
