Concordia University Law School - December 10, 2008
Statement from Concordia University, Portland
On Friday, December 5 the Board of Regents of Concordia University voted to select Cathy Silak (current vita) as founding Dean of the Concordia University Law School in Boise, Idaho effective December 15, 2008. Concordia University conducted a thorough national search for the dean, and found in Silak a candidate who is uniquely qualified for the position. Her legal experience and expertise is exemplified by her tenure as a supreme court justice of Idaho. Her commitment to community is demonstrated by her recent work as president of the Idaho Community Foundation. The board was extremely pleased that the person who best met its high standards is from Idaho.
During the coming months, Dean Silak will lead the planning of the law program and build financial and community support for the new school. She will also honor her previous legal and community commitments during this startup period.
Concordia University is a private, Lutheran, liberal arts university located in Portland, Oregon. Historically, the University has drawn students from Idaho as well as throughout the Northwest. This has led naturally to a significant relationship between Idaho and the University, including philanthropic support, student recruitment and mutual interest.
Given this rich history, the Board of Regents welcomes the opportunity to offer an important and needed degree program in Idaho. Boise is one of the few major metropolitan areas in the country without a law school. The Law School will support the needs and aspirations of college graduates and the business, legal and public policy communities of the entire state.
Through periodic statements and other means, the University will keep its constituencies informed as we progress.