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Mock Trial Alumna Ryane Conroy Named 2007 Distinguished Graduate

Ryane Conroy (Class of 2000) was recently selected for induction into Bellarmine University's Gallery of Distinguished Graduates.  

Only six alumni are selected each year for this prestigious honor, which recognizes outstanding professional accomplishments, community service or other achievements that reflect the values Bellarmine seeks to promote.  Conroy is one of the youngest inductees in the Gallery's history.

As a mock trial participant, Conroy argued in the Iowa Supreme Court in her first two years with the program, as part of Bellarmine's 1998 Runner-Up and 1999 National Champion teams.  She won numerous awards as an attorney at competitions across the country, including All-American recognition at the 1999 National Championship.   

After graduating summa cum laude from Bellarmine in 2000 and receiving the faculty award for best graduating senior majoring in the humanities, Conroy went to the University of Louisville's Brandeis School of Law, where she graduated magna cum laude in 2003.  In law school, Conroy competed on several highly successful trial advocacy teams.  She parlayed her courtroom experience -- both at Bellarmine and in law school -- into her current position with the Commonwealth's Attorney's Office, where she works with another Bellarmine Mock Trial alumnus, Jason Butler.  

Conroy has become a prominent member of Louisville's legal community in a very short time.  In her position as Assistant Commonwealth's Attorney in the trial unit responsible for prosecuting capital offenses, she has handled several high profile murder cases.  She recently obtained a conviction in a case involving a highly publicized and shockingly brutal group attack that led to the death of a homeless man.

As those who know Ryane would agree, prosecuting suits her incredibly well.  "Ryane was born to be in a courtroom, and born to do the kind of highly-charged criminal litigation she's doing.  She is one of the sharpest people I've ever met," said former teammate Matt Rich.  Even though she is incredibly busy, she still volunteers to judge mock trial competitions and offer current Bellarmine Mock Trial members guidance and an honest critique of their performances. 

Conroy's honor comes five years after current Bellarmine Mock Trial coach Jim Wagoner was recognized as Alumnus of the Year by the school.  Conroy will be inducted into the Gallery of Distinguished Graduates at a reception on August 25, 2007.