#United States #St. Thomas University #Miami Gardens #Mock Trial #Top Gun

St. Thomas University College of Law Invited to Top Gun National Mock Trial Competition

In a monumental achievement, St. Thomas University College of Law has been extended an invitation to compete in the Top Gun National Mock Trial Competition, marking a significant milestone for the institution. This prestigious event is regarded as one of the premier mock trial competitions in the United States, and for St. Thomas University, it represents a crowning achievement in a remarkable academic year.

The invitation to Top Gun, which takes place at Baylor Law School, is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the university’s law students and faculty. Notably, this is the first time in the college’s history that it has been selected to participate in this elite competition. The STU Trial Team has had a stellar 2025-26 academic year, emerging victorious in three competitions and recently reaching the finals of the National Trial Competition organized by the Texas Young Lawyers Association.

The Challenge of Top Gun

The Top Gun National Mock Trial Competition is exclusive, featuring only 16 premier trial advocacy programs from around the country. Participating schools must send a single advocate who is tasked with preparing a new case file in just 24 hours, underscoring the competition’s demanding nature. This format tests not only the legal knowledge of participants but also their speed, critical thinking, and courtroom prowess.

Dean Tarlika Nuñez-Navarro praised the achievement, stating, "Participating in Top Gun places the STU College of Law among the very best advocacy programs and speaks to the extraordinary discipline, preparation, and courtroom skill of our students. Being recognized with an invitation after such a historic season is a tremendous honor for our College of Law and a powerful sign of where we are headed."

This invitation signifies the university’s commitment to fostering top-tier legal educations and preparing future lawyers to excel in the challenging environment of legal practice. The dedication and hard work put forth by the students and their coaches are evident in this selection, painting a bright future for the St. Thomas law program.

St. Thomas University’s Legacy

Founded as a distinguished Catholic university in Florida, St. Thomas University has diversified its academic offerings across various disciplines, including nursing, business, and the liberal arts. The institution aims to cultivate not just skilled professionals, but also ethical leaders ready to tackle global challenges. With over 60 undergraduate and graduate programs, the law school specifically provides an environment renowned for its advocacy and trial preparation training.

As part of its strategic vision under President David A. Armstrong, St. Thomas University is also undertaking significant development projects, including expanding the College of Law and building new facilities for STEM and nursing programs. These developments are aimed at continuing the tradition of excellence well into the future.

To learn more about the Top Gun National Mock Trial Competition or the achievements of the St. Thomas University College of Law, visit Baylor Law School's Top Gun page.

This exciting opportunity not only positions St. Thomas University at the forefront of legal education but illustrates the institution's ongoing commitment to excellence in trial advocacy and legal training. With its tireless pursuit of higher standards, St. Thomas continues to build a reputation as a strong contender in shaping the lawyers of tomorrow.