Albany Law School’s Anthony V. Cardona ’70 Moot Court Program Celebrates a Year of Exceptional Achievement

Albany Law School’s Anthony V. Cardona ’70 Moot Court Program closed out an extraordinary year, marked by significant student engagement, unparalleled support from the bench and bar, and outstanding performances across every competition.

Participation in the Moot Court Program’s intraschool competitions remains a cornerstone of the Albany Law experience, offering students rigorous training in legal research, analysis, writing, and oral advocacy. Competitors are immersed in a professional network of federal and state judges and New York attorneys, who volunteer their time to evaluate and mentor students. Many students further expand their skills by participating in interschool competitions, representing Albany Law at tournaments nationwide.

This year underscored the program’s strength and impact: 235 students—38% of the J.D. student body—took part in Moot Court, a remarkable level of engagement. Supporting them were 190 volunteer judges, including 16 faculty members, President and Dean Cinnamon Carlarne, numerous alumni, and 26 judges from all levels of the judiciary, including the New York Court of Appeals. Their involvement provided students with invaluable feedback and unmatched educational experience.

The Domenick L. Gabrielli Appellate Advocacy Competition showcased exceptional advocacy from finalists Luke DeFio ’27, Ethan Beach ’27, Connor Skehan ’27, and Silas Smith ’27. Judged by Hon. Michael J. Garcia ’89, Hon. Anthony Cannataro, and Hon. Mae D’Agostino, the final round highlighted the competitors’ poise and precision. DeFio and Beach ultimately took home top honors. The competition was supported by Faculty Advisor Professor Wetmore ’14, Competition Chair Liam Nugent ’26, and Associate Phillip Getsin ’27.

In the Donna Jo Morse Negotiations Competition, finalists Kathryn Benedetti ’27, Timothy Nolan ’27, Victor Gelfuso ’27, and MacKenzie Brown ’27 demonstrated impressive negotiation strategy and professionalism. Judges Professor Robert Heverly ’92, Hon. Jasmine Norman, and Raymond Weiss ’22 praised the students for their preparation and insight. Benedetti and Nolan were named this year’s winners. The competition was led by Faculty Advisor Professor Daniel Bollana ’16, Chair Margarita Kraynova ’27, and Associate Hallie Denison ’27.

The Karen C. McGovern Senior Prize Trial Competition brought forward the year’s strongest trial advocates. Defense team Victor Gelfuso ’27 and Nathan Mattison ’27 and prosecution team Jessica Rosenthal ’27 and Allison Beckwith ’27 impressed Judge William T. Little ’05 with their advocacy and courtroom presence. Rosenthal and Beckwith earned the top prize.

Rounding out the intraschool competitions, the Donna Jo Morse Client Counseling Competition highlighted excellence in client interaction and problem-solving. Finalists Tyler James ’27, Grace Geurin ’27, Leah Roth ’27, and Mary “Molly” Harrison ’27 were commended by judges Dean Rosemary Queenan, Amina Karic, Claire Parham, and Jason Welch. James and Geurin were named this year’s champions. The competition was guided by Faculty Advisor Professor Joseph Connors ’88, Chair Lauren Welch ’26, and Associate Hallie Dennison ’27.

Albany Law also welcomed 28 teams from across the country for the 38th Annual Domenick L. Gabrielli National Family Law Moot Court Competition, led by Competition Chair Domenico D’Angelo ’26, Faculty Advisor Professor Melissa Breger, and Associates Kaitlin Fotevski ’27 and Kelly Maney ’27.

In addition to the success of our intraschool competitions, the Moot Court Travel Team excelled on the national stage throughout the year. Albany Law competitors represented the school at major tournaments across the country—including the American Association for Justice Student Trial Advocacy Competition, the Online National Championship, the National Moot Court Competition, and Harvard Law School’s Cambridge Clash Invitational—earning praise from judges for their advocacy, preparation, and professionalism. Students demonstrated remarkable growth and resilience as they refined their trial and appellate skills, with several advocates and teams achieving standout recognition. These accomplishments were made possible through the dedicated coaching and support of faculty and volunteer mentors, whose guidance continues to strengthen Albany Law’s tradition of excellence in advocacy.

It has been a year defined by dedication, talent, and the unwavering support of the Albany Law community, further solidifying Moot Court as one of the school’s most vibrant and transformative programs.

The continued success of the Anthony V. Cardona ’70 Moot Court Program is driven in no small part by the dedication of its student leadership. This year’s Board—Executive Director Joshua M. Hacker ’26, Director of Competitions Danitta B. Nyantakyi ’26, and Director of Finance Jacklyn C. DeCady ’26—played an essential role in organizing competitions, supporting competitors, and strengthening the program’s operations. Their commitment, professionalism, and behind-the-scenes work ensured a seamless and enriching experience for hundreds of student advocates throughout the year.