The Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University’s Black Law Student Association (BLSA) Mock Trial Team delivered a standout performance at the 2024–2025 Constance Baker Motley Mock Trial Competition, with a top two finish in the entire Northeast region. The Constance Baker Motley Mock Trial Competition was held as part of the 57th Annual Northeast Black Law Students Association (NEBLSA) Regional Convention.
The Haub Law BLSA team traveled to Boston, Massachusetts to compete in the highly competitive and prestigious competition, known for its rigorous standards and elite competitors. Over the course of four intense days, the Haub Law team, comprised of Julie Bazile (2L), Jason Lee (4L Flex), Andrew Pierre (3L), and Ashley Baizas (3L), competed in five back-to-back rounds, facing off against thirteen of the most talented teams across the Northeast region. The team was accompanied and coached by Adjunct Professor Betty Lawrence Lewis Esq., Pernell Telfort Esq., and alumni coaches Brianna Pryce, Esq. ’20, and Jamal J. Wyse, Esq. ’19.
“Each round tested our skills in trial advocacy, including opening statements, witness examinations, objections, and closing arguments, all before panels of experienced judges and legal professions,” said student team member Jason Lee (4L Flex). “Our preparation, teamwork, and dedication were on full display as we demonstrated our command of the law, sharp analytical skills, and persuasive courtroom presence. The competition was fierce, but we remained composed under pressure, adapting to each new challenge and opponent with confidence and professionalism.”
A true testament to the team’s hard work and talent, not only did Haub Law’s BLSA team finish in the top two, but Julie Bazile (2L) received an individual award for Best Prosecution Advocate. “This experience not only strengthened our legal skills, but also deepened our passion for advocacy, teamwork, and the pursuit of justice,” said Black Law Student Association President and team student member, Julie Bazile (2L). “Competing in the Constance Baker Motley Mock Trial was an unforgettable milestone, and we are proud to have represented our school with excellence and integrity.”
“I continue to be so proud and confident of the outstanding work of Haub Law’s BLSA teams,” said Professor Louis Fasulo, Director of Advocacy Programs and Professor of Trial Practice. “Under the direction of great coaching this team once again is going to Nationals. It is a tribute to great advocacy skills, hard work and a true competitive spirit.”
The Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University’s trial advocacy program is consistently ranked among the top institutions by U.S. News and World Report, with the most recent ranking of #13 in the nation, placing it impressively among the top 10% of schools nationwide.
After the passing of two long-term and dedicated Alumni Board Members, the Honorable Sandra A. Forster ’79 and Adele Lerman Janow ’90, the Alumni Board decided to establish an Immediate Impact Scholarship to commemorate the lives of these esteemed alumnae, The Adele Janow and Judge Sandra Forster Memorial Scholarship.
For Amanda (Mandy) Howerton-Fox ’27, deciding to attend law school was not just a career shift—it was a natural continuation of her lifelong commitment to advocacy. A former teacher of the deaf, Mandy’s passion for special education and disability rights first led her to pursue a PhD and become a tenured professor of education. Now, she has embarked on a new path at the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University, with a goal of effecting change through law and policy while advocating for people directly.
The Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University’s Trial Advocacy Team recently competed in the prestigious IBA International Criminal Court Moot Court Competition (IBA ICCMCC) held in the Hague.