Missouri State University’s Mock Trial team won the championship at the 2025 Mid-Missouri Mock Trial Invitational, held Jan. 25-26 in Columbia, Missouri.

The tournament was hosted by the Board of Advocates at the University of Missouri-Columbia Law School and Columbia College.

Two MSU Mock Trial teams competed in the tournament, according to Dr. Jennifer LaPrade, Mock Trial coordinator and associate professor in the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice.

The first Mock Trial team won 6.5 out of eight ballots after competing against the University of Arkansas, the University of Missouri, Wheaton College and Southern Methodist University.

The second Mock Trial team also placed well, LaPrade added, winning five out of eight ballots after competing against University of Central Missouri, University of Missouri, Columbia College and Wheaton College.

LaPrade said the wins represent a “big step forward” for the team. “We’ll use this success as motivation to continue growing and improving.”

Individual efforts win big

In addition to the overall win, four Mock Trial team members earned top honors in individual categories.

Senior criminology and criminal justice major Zack Collison continued his incredible run as a Mock Trial witness by not only winning Outstanding Witness but also earning his second perfect witness ranking this season, LaPrade said.

Meanwhile, senior criminology and criminal justice major Josh Roberts won his second Outstanding Attorney award for this year, and senior management major Kathryn Wagner won Outstanding Attorney.

“This was [Wagner’s] first individual award,” LaPrade said. “She’s come very close so many times, so I am thrilled she was recognized.”

In addition, sophomore management major Stephanie Diaz, a Mock Trial rookie this year, also won Outstanding Attorney.

Collaborative spirit contributes to wins

LaPrade said the group’s camaraderie and talent contributed to their wins.

“This victory is a testament to the hard work, dedication and collaboration of each team member,” LaPrade said. “It’s not just about individual talent, but how well they come together as a unit.”

“This tournament was an opportunity for them to showcase everything they’ve learned so far this season, and they did so brilliantly.”