The Illinois State mock trial team placed sixth at the 29th annual National Mock Trial Tournament held January 26 to 28 at Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa. Thirty-eight teams participated in the competition.
Seniors Kelly Franklin and Grace Hannon-Geller received “Outstanding Attorney” awards. Both Franklin and Hanno-Geller were “closers” for the team. A closer presents closing argument at the end of each trial.
Grace Hannon-Geller and Kelly Franklin
The Redbirds garnered a 6-1-1 record at the tournament. Illinois State faced teams from Kansas State University, Loyola University, Loras College, and Grinnell College. This may have been the first time Illinois State received a trophy for its performance at this tournament.
Wheaton College was the winner of the competition. This tournament is Illinois State’s last invitational before the American Mock Trial Association regional competition in February.
Students interested in the mock trial team should enroll in POL 283: Trial Advocacy. For further information about the mock trial program, contact Professor Tom McClure at temcclu@IllinoisState.edu.
