The WMU Mock Trial program was founded in 1999. Dr. Peter Renstrom
formed and coached two teams that competed for the first time in the
2000-01 season. In 2007-08 the team was coached by Renstrom's
daughter, Joelle, who was assisted by local lawyers, including adjunct
professor James Geary of Howard and Howard, PC. The WMU team has
qualified for the national championships in four of the last eight
seasons. The team was recognized as Best New Team in 2000 and received the Spirit of AMTA Award in 2000 and 2001. A number of WMU team members
have been recognized as outstanding witnesses and attorneys.
Professor Renstrom and political science supporters of Mock Trial
secured funding from various departments and organizations within the
University, guaranteeing that the team had funds to travel to several
tournaments each academic year. Beginning in fall 2006, Mock Trial
was introduced as a for-credit course at WMU. The team now includes
nearly 20 participants traveling to at least four events each year.
