Elon trustees have voted to endorse the concept of establishing a School of Law, but said adequate financing must be identified in the near future for the project to move forward.
A special task force headed by Provost Gerald Francis delivered a Phase II report to the board at its March 10 meeting, finding that it is feasible and appropriate for Elon to create a law school. The task force also determined that downtown Greensboro would be the best location for the school.
Former Greensboro mayor Jim Melvin, president of the Joseph M. Bryan Foundation, told trustees about efforts he is leading to assemble a financial package to fund the extensive resource requirements for a law school. Melvin is working with the Greensboro City Council on an arrangement that would provide the former Central Public Library building for the school, and he is also seeking support from private benefactors for start-up funding.
Trustees voted to endorse the law school in principle, finding that it fits well with Elon’s mission and would be an asset in the university’s continued growth and development. However, they said they would consider establishing a law school only if an adequate funding package can be assembled. 
They authorized administrators and members of the board to work with potential benefactors over the next 60 days to attempt to secure the financial resources, which include a suitable facility and approximately $10 million in outside funding. Elon is prepared to contribute an additional $3 million in start-up funding.
“We believe two months is adequate time to determine if there is enough interest and support among private benefactors to fund development of a law school,” said Zac Walker, chair of the board. “At the same time, we remain focused on the aggressive goals of the NewCentury@Elon strategic plan. Continued growth in the quality of our undergraduate programs and the facilities on campus remains our top priority.”