A Publication of
the University
of New Mexico
Foundation, Inc.
| The University of New Mexico |
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A Publication of the University of New Mexico Foundation, Inc. |
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By Alice Trabaudo
"No real renovations or remodeling have been done on the School of Law in nearly 30 years," comments Herb Wright, the school's constituent development officer. But that's changing as the UNM School of Law expands and updates its facilities in an $11.3 million two-phase project that will last about 18 months, beginning with the April 18, 2001 groundbreaking. Phase One, the Hart Addition, will create 32,000 square feet of new, usable space for the school. Named for Frederick M. Hart, UNM professor and former dean of law, the addition will solve issues of space and problems with accessibility. The addition and subsequent renovation will bring the school into compliance with the Americans With Disabilities Act and also will afford access to computer and multimedia technology that has long been missing from the school's resources.
Eight classrooms and a dedicated courtroom, all wired for state-of-the-art multimedia technology, as well as a new computer service center, a computer laboratory, faculty offices and clinic space will be added. Video conferencing and interactive courses will enhance traditional classroom teaching for students, judges and lawyers throughout New Mexico. Student services will be centralized in the Hart addition, and the expansion will add space for both a copy center and a multimedia facility. The multimedia center will interface with the technology center and serve the entire school. High tech equipment, such as digital cameras, microphones, data projectors and audio recorders, will be added. Part of Bratton Hall also will be renovated in Phase One, including the establishment of the Bruce King Library, honoring the former governor and housing the political papers he is donating to the school. Wright says King's papers "will further enhance the Law Library's ability as a research center dedicated to New Mexico's legal and political history."
Former Governor King has been involved in New Mexico politics since 1959, when he was elected to the state House of Representatives. He served five consecutive terms, three during which he was Speaker of the House. In 1971, King was elected governor and went on to serve two more non-consecutive terms. A longtime active member of the UNM Alumni Association, King has offered to assist in a fund-raising effort for the law library. Phase Two of the project will involve renovating facilities first completed in 1971. During this phase, Bratton Hall classrooms will be revamped and wired for access to the new School of Law computer network. The School of Law is counting on private donations, grants and state money to fund this major project. For additional information regarding the expansion, please contact Wright at (505) 277-1038 or wright@law.unm.edu.
UNM
Foundation Inc. 505-277-4503 Copyright
© 2006 The University of New Mexico. |
Spring 2001
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