February 7, 2025
Two J.D. students qualify for international competition in London
Two members of the St. Mary’s University School of Law National Dispute Resolution Team were named national champions at the American Bar Association National Negotiation Competition Finals on Jan. 31 and Feb. 1 in Chicago. Scott Lopez, third-year J.D. student, and Caroline Villarreal, second-year J.D. student, will represent the United States at the 2025 International Negotiation Competition for Law Students in July in London.
The St. Mary’s National Dispute Resolution Team consisted of Lopez, Villarreal and second-year J.D. students Anthony “Kash” Maley and Kendall Michaelis. The four team members competed in the national finals, showcasing the skill, dedication and excellence that define St. Mary’s Law Advocacy Programs.
A.J. Bellido de Luna, J.D., Assistant Dean for Advocacy and Conflict Resolution Programs, congratulated the J.D. students on this remarkable achievement.
“Their outstanding performance exemplifies the excellence, strategy and teamwork that define our National Dispute Resolution Team, bringing immense pride to St. Mary’s,” he said. “This victory is a testament to their relentless hard work, dedication and commitment to advocacy.”
The students were coached by Allen Craddock (J.D. ’97) and Sarah Bourland (J.D. ’23).