McGeorge School of Law alumna Michele Ruffner ’26 has been recognized as one of the nation’s top law student advocates, earning the All-American Trial Advocate Award from the National Association of Legal Advocacy Educators (NALAE). 

The award is given annually to the top 20 student advocates in the country. Each law school trial advocacy program can nominate one student. Ruffner was selected as McGeorge’s nominee and became the first McGeorge student to receive the honor. 

“Receiving the All-American Advocate Award feels like a true full-circle moment because it reflects not only my growth, but also the investment that McGeorge and its advocacy community made in me from the moment I arrived on campus,” Ruffner said. 

Throughout law school, Ruffner has had a strong history of earning high honors. In 2025, she earned the Best Advocate Award at the National Medical-Legal Mock Trial Tournament. She also was part of the team that won the 2026 American Association for Justice (AAJ) Student Trial Advocacy Competition (STAC). 

Looking back, Ruffner credits her growth to the opportunities she found both inside and outside the classroom. 

“Through McGeorge’s advocacy courses, competitions, mentorship and hands-on opportunities, I was challenged to grow far beyond what I thought was possible,” Ruffner said. “The faculty, coaches and mentors pushed me to refine my skills, think critically, and develop the confidence necessary to succeed both in and out of the courtroom.” 

Ruffner said McGeorge's Trial Advocacy program was one of the reasons she chose the law school. This year, the program was ranked No. 16 in the nation, according to the latest U.S. News & World Report rankings.  

“McGeorge played a tremendous role in preparing me for this recognition,” she said. “One of the reasons I chose McGeorge was its nationally recognized Trial Advocacy Program.” 

As she reflects on her law school journey, Ruffner encourages current and future students to focus on progress rather than perfection. 

“Focus on improvement rather than perfection,” she said. “The best advocates are not necessarily the most naturally talented; they are the ones who consistently seek feedback, remain coachable, and continue working when no one is watching.” 

As a first-generation law student, Ruffner hopes her experience encourages others to pursue opportunities that may seem out of reach. 

“I hope my journey reminds others that they belong in every space and inspires them to pursue opportunities that may feel beyond their reach,” Ruffner said.