The Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University’s LALSA Moot Court Teams took home first and second place in this year’s 17th Annual National Latina/Latino Law Student Association (NLLSA) Moot Court Competition. The Competition, held over the course of two days in Puerto Rico, is organized by NLLSA. Haub Law sent two teams to compete this year and in an exciting final round, the two Haub Law teams versed one another, ultimately finishing as the top two teams.
“This year’s Haub Law teams were well-prepared and excellent competitors,” said Angelica Cancel ’17, one of the team’s coaches. “To have our two teams take home first and second place is an honor and a testament to the dedication of the student advocates.” The Haub Law Teams consisted of Samantha Portillo (3L) and Kaitlyn Cepeda (2L) on one team and Francesca Rocha (2L) and Emanuel Yax (3L) on the other team. Samantha and Kaitlyn’s team, coached by Michael Pabon ’22, finished in first, with Francesca and Emanuel’s team, coached by Angelica Cancel ’17, in second. Additionally, Francesca Rocha (2L) won the Top Oralist Award – Appellant.
“I am so grateful to have had the experience of traveling to Puerto Rico for this competition with my Haub Law teammates,” LALSA Moot Court Team member Samantha Portillo (3L). “We prepared for months leading up to the competition and it is rewarding to see that hard work pay off with the results.” Haub Law has a strong history with NLLSA and the NLLSA Competition. Several Haub Law students have served on the executive board of NLLSA in the past. Currently, there are four Haub Law students on NLLSA’s executive board for the 2024–2025 academic year. Haub Law student Samara Pizarro ‘25 is the NLLSA Attorney General and assisted in writing this year’s competition fact pattern. Additionally, Haub Law students Henry Rodriguez (2L), Joesph Martinez (3L), Jalice Zea-Roman (3L) are members of the NLLSA executive board.
“This was a tremendous accomplishment for our teams and coaches,” said Professor Louis Fasulo, Director of Advocacy Programs and Professor of Trial Practice. “The work and strategy along with the excellent argument made by the competitors led to both of our teams being recognized. Our victory here reflects the first time our teams received both champion and finalist recognition. The results speak volumes on the quality of our program and the dedication of all. I am very Pace Proud!”
As we prepare for the 2026–2027 academic year, Pace University’s Financial Aid Office is sharing several important reminders for students at the Elisabeth Haub School of Law, including academic progress policies, upcoming federal aid changes, and graduation requirements. As a reminder, students should continue checking their Pace email regularly for important updates and notifications.
Daniel Khieninson ’26 has distinguished himself as an exceptional student leader during his time at the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University, earning recognition for his exemplary academic achievement and his commitment to the Law School community. In recognition of his accomplishments, Dan will deliver the student address at the 2026 Commencement.
After transferring to Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University, Gabrielle Seebold found a program that aligned with her global ambitions—immersing herself in international law, securing a United Nations internship, and building a path toward a career as an international business attorney.