Concordia law school moves into downtown Boise

Idaho’s newest law school is officially calling Boise home. Dozens of people helped Concordia University’s School of Law celebrate its groundbreaking June 22, at its property at Fifth and Front streets in downtown Boise.

“I am thrilled that Concordia has chosen to make downtown Boise its new home,” Boise Mayor Dave Bieter said. “The law school will provide a needed educational opportunity for the entire valley and will also make this part of town more vibrant as the campus fills with faculty, staff, and new students.”

Major expansion and renovations are slated for the existing 17,000 square foot building that will include a three-story, 33,000-square-foot addition. A library, classrooms, offices and other amenities will also complete the project. Its central location is expected to be a key benefit for both students and faculty.

“The location is very advantageous, especially because we are near the Statehouse, Ada County Courthouse, state offices, and nonprofit agencies,” said Cathy Silak, dean of the law school and a former Idaho Supreme Court justice.

“Concordia is looking forward to providing the same transformative leadership in this community that it is known for across the United States,” she said.

University President Chuck Schlimpert said the school will have a positive impact throughout the city and state.

“Concordia is committed to Boise and Idaho for the long term by helping grow its future leaders, who will give back through community service,” he said.

Pending accreditation by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, the school is anticipated to be open in the fall of 2011.

Concordia University is a private, Lutheran, liberal arts school founded in 1905 and located in Portland, Ore.