The Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University hosted the 38th Annual Jeffrey G. Miller National Environmental Law Moot Court Competition (NELMCC), bringing together law students from across the United States for a three-day event focused on environmental law advocacy.
Columbia Law School won this year’s championship, with University of Minnesota Law School and Lewis & Clark Law School named as finalists. The final round was judged by a panel that included The Honorable Eunice C. Lee of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, The Honorable Kermit V. Lipez of the First Circuit, The Honorable Malachy E. Mannion of the Middle District of Pennsylvania, The Honorable Joseph A. Marutollo from the Eastern District of New York, and The Honorable A. L. Merriam from the Second Circuit.
Pace Haub Law students organized and led all aspects of NELMCC this year, with Thomas O’Connell serving as chair and Professor Todd Ommen authoring the competition problem and acting as faculty advisor.
“NELMCC represents the very best of environmental advocacy and student leadership,” said NELMCC Chair Thomas O’Connell. “It was an honor to work alongside such a dedicated board to welcome talented competitors from across the country and esteemed attorney judges. The level of preparation, professionalism, and passion we saw this year truly reflects the strength and future of environmental law.”
In addition to oral arguments, coaches and judges participated in discussions and panels during the event. Other activities included an environmental career session hosted by the ABA Section of Environment, Energy, and Resources, a workshop for law professors, continuing legal education programming, as well as a reception and awards ceremony.
Individual awards were presented to Julie Lane from Drake University Law School (Best Oralist) and Andie Madsen from SJ Quinney College of Law (Honorable Mention for Best Oralist). American University Washington College of Law received the 2026 David Sive Award for Best Brief Overall.
This year’s competition was supported by organizations including premier sponsors: American Bar Association Section of Environment, Energy, and Resources (SEER) and AlterEcho.
