(Rochester, N.Y.) – St. John Fisher College continues to explore opening a law school downtown, although the economy may slow things down.
“What we did not anticipate as we moved ahead with this are the current financial challenges that are being faced everywhere,” said President Dr. Donald Bain.
The college announced last April that it was exploring a law school, after a consultant’s feasibility study showed a need for one in the Rochester area. Now the college is doing an extensive analysis to make sure a law school would be successful.
“It will depend on what we come up with. This recent financial downturn nationally is obviously putting a dent in a lot of both capital and operating projects and fundraising,” Dr. Bain said.
The economy hasn’t stopped Bain from scoping out potential locations.
One limitation with existing buildings is that the American Bar Association has strict requirements for library space, square footage per student, and other amenities.
Dr. Bain has ruled out Old City Hall, because it’s too small. Renaissance Square is also out. He toured Sibley Centre and that’s still an option.
Building a law school from scratch is also an option – perhaps at the Midtown site. Dr. Bain said the mayor hasn’t asked him to locate at Midtown, but the thought crossed his mind. “Well it has. All options are open.”
Dr. Bain did not know if a decision on whether to proceed will be made this year.
“It depends on how quickly the people who are working on these other aspects of the proposal are able to get results to me. I'll let you know as soon as I know,” he said.
If Fisher decides to move forward, State Senator Joseph Robach secured a $2.25 million grant for capital expenses.
