Richardson Law’s BLSA Moot Court Team Earns Regional Honors

HONOLULU, Hawaiʻi (Feb. 10, 2026) — The William S. Richardson School of Law is proud to celebrate multiple student and chapter achievements by our Black Law Students Association during the 2026 academic year.

Online J.D. students Dave Fields and Carina Lee, coached by Professor D Dangaran, earned second place at the Western Regional Round of the Thurgood Marshall Moot Court Competition. The team also received the highest written brief score of the competition, recognizing excellence in legal research, writing, and advocacy. 

Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Troy J.H. Andrade ‘11 praised the work of the team. “It takes tremendous skill and dedication to be successful at such a prestigious moot court competition, and we couldn’t be more proud of our BLSA team,” Dean Andrade said. “This accomplishment is extra special as Dave and Carina are online J.D. students who have an extraordinary ability to juggle online law school, extracurricular activities, and jobs.” 

In addition to the moot court success, Richardson Law’s BLSA chapter was honored as Small Chapter of the Year by the Western Region Black Law Students Association, recognizing the chapter’s outstanding leadership, programming, and impact.

Further highlighting this year’s accomplishments, 2L student Hannah Hawley was elected Chair of the Western Region Black Law Students Association for the 2026–2027 term.

“We are delighted to recognize and celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of our Black Law Students Association and its members during the 2026 academic year,” Dean Camille Nelson said. “Their hard work, passion, and unwavering commitment, sustained alongside the rigorous demands of their legal studies, are truly inspiring. These extraordinary achievements exemplify the excellence, dedication, and spirit that define our student body.” 

These achievements reflect the strength of Richardson Law’s student leadership, commitment to excellence, and dedication to advancing justice both in and out of the classroom.

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About William S. Richardson School of Law

The William S. Richardson School of Law is a collaborative, multicultural community preparing students for excellence in the practice of law and related careers that advance justice and the rule of law. We develop highly qualified, ethical professionals through excellence in teaching, scholarship, and public service. We embrace Hawai‘i’s diversity and values and recognize a special responsibility to our state and the Pacific region.

MEDIA CONTACT

Collin Cedotal, Public Information Specialist
(808) 956-9391 | ccedotal@hawaii.edu