Provost says USC close to choosing new law leader, only two candidates remain
USC officials say they have about $14 million for either the construction of a new law school or the renovation of the current deteriorating facility.
But remodeling the current building will cost at least $30 million. Plans to construct a new building could cost $90 million, and USC officials are hoping to find cheaper options.
A decision on whether the university will build or renovate is still up in the air. Provost Michael Amiridis said USC has given an architectural group 30 more days to economize options and ensure the university can’t consider building options that are cheaper, smaller and still acceptable.
Raising funds for the building is currently at a standstill.
“I don’t know how much has been done recently,” Amiridis said. “And quite frankly, given the uncertainty that exists right now between building a new facility or renovating the existing one, I’d be surprised to see much progress.”
USC hired former state Attorney General Henry McMaster to lead fundraising and outreach efforts for the school earlier this year. He’s currently not raising funds for the building but is meeting with lawyers in the community and asking how people feel the university should move forward, said Michelle Dodenhoff, USC’s vice president for development. Dodenhoff said McMaster would begin active fundraising after a plan is announced.
Amiridis said the university also plans to announce its selection for the new law school dean within weeks. Two candidates remain after Stephen Mazza, previously the interim dean, accepted the dean position at the University of Kansas.
“We have to negotiate, sign on the dotted line and do those kinds of things,” Amiridis said. “We are very close to finalizing the new dean’s appointment. We expect that within two or three weeks we should be able to close the deal and have a new dean.”
Philip Land, former Student Bar Association president and a member of the search committee, said he was “extremely pleased” with both candidates.
“I’m optimistic about the future of the law school. The leadership of the university have listened to our cry and have recognized our needs,” Land said. “And while we have yet to see the benefits materialize, I have had every assurance given to me from those groups that we will see material gain, and I have no reason to doubt those assurances.”