RALEIGH – A strong field of advocates competed in the 2026 Richard A. Lord Intramural Moot Court Competition, culminating in a final round that highlighted both exceptional student advocacy and the deep traditions that define this annual event, organizers said. The competition is sponsored and organized by the Old Kivett Advocacy Council.
Brittany Swanger ’27 and Grace Whittemore ’27 emerged as the competition’s champions, capping a standout performance that also earned them the award for Best Brief.
Their written advocacy placed them at the top of the field, and Whittemore further distinguished herself by receiving the Rick Edmundson Award for Best Oralist.
Several teams delivered notable performances throughout the competition, said Director of Competitive Advocacy Rene Shekmer.
Tanner Boone ’27 and Sabrina Hess ’27 were recognized as Best Brief Runners-Up for their strong written submission.
Finalists Jackson Haskell ’27 and Rachael Cheeseman ’27 advanced through multiple rounds to earn a place in the final argument, demonstrating impressive preparation and poise, Shekmer said.
“The depth of talent across the competition reflected the strength of the program and the commitment of each team to high-level advocacy,” Shekmer said.
The final round was judged by an accomplished panel: Judge Allegra Collins ’06, Professor Charles Warren and Professor Robert Montgomery. Their questions challenged competitors to think critically, respond with precision, and demonstrate mastery of the legal issues at stake. Their participation added a level of rigor and authenticity that mirrors real appellate practice.
This year’s competition also carried special meaning through the presence of the Edmundson family. Percy Ann Edmundson, now 89, and her daughter, Tammi Edmundson Holland, attended the final round to honor the memory of Rick Edmundson, for whom the Best Oralist award is named. Rick Edmundson was a Campbell Law student when he was diagnosed with cancer and died in 1984. In the decades since, his family has remained deeply connected to the law school community, ensuring that his spirit, dedication and love of advocacy continue to inspire new generations of students. Their ongoing support provides a monetary award each year to the student selected as Best Oralist.
The 2026 competition showcased the power of strong writing, thoughtful analysis and confident oral advocacy, Shekmer added.
“It also highlighted the meaningful traditions that shape the Campbell Law community, blending excellence in advocacy with a legacy of remembrance and support,” she said. “As students look ahead to future competitions and professional opportunities, the achievements recognized this year stand as a testament to their hard work and the mentorship that guides them.”
ABOUT CAMPBELL LAW SCHOOL
Since its founding in 1976, Campbell Law has developed lawyers who possess moral conviction, social compassion, and professional competence, and who view the law as a calling to serve others. Among its accolades, the school has been recognized by the American Bar Association (ABA) as having the nation’s top Professionalism Program and by the American Academy of Trial Lawyers for having the nation’s best Trial Advocacy Program. Campbell Law boasts more than 5,000 alumni, who make their home in nearly all 50 states and beyond. In 2026, Campbell Law is celebrating 50 years of graduating legal leaders and 17 years of being located in a state-of-the-art facility in the heart of North Carolina’s Capital City.