The state’s top judge has delivered his ruling: CUNY School of Law’s new location in Queens is a boon for the judicial system.
New York State Chief Judge Jonathan Lippman christened the public service law school’s move on Monday from Flushing to Long Island City.
“Finally the outstanding things that happen within the walls of this institution are matched by this glorious building,” he said of the school’s new digs in the trendy Court Square area. “It is hard to imagine a better home for CUNY Law School.”
The new location, with its plentiful mass transit options, will also be a boon for students, school officials said.
During a time when those who are “vulnerable and frightened” are struggling to afford legal representation, investing in institutions dedicated to public service are especially vital, Lippman said.
A large percentage of graduates, roughly two-thirds, opt for pro-bono and advocacy positions, as opposed to signing with high-paying corporate firms.
“Our courts are truly the emergency rooms for the ills of society — today our courtrooms are standing room only,” he said. “This great institution in particular plays such an important role serving the disadvantaged.”
The school completed the move from Main St., Flushing, to the up-and-coming area of Long Island City in the shadow of the Citigroup Center. Large-scale tenants such as JetBlue and the city Department of Health have re-shaped the western Queens landscape, transforming the neighborhood from its gritty, industrial days.
The building was formerly a training center for Citigroup, but the Great Recession created an opportunity for CUNY honchos to pounce on the prime location, said Iris Weinshall, CUNY’s vice chancellor for facilities planning.
Michelle Anderson, dean of CUNY School of Law, said the new location will help its local students cut their commutes significantly.
“It’s a new tremendous asset to the law school,” she said, noting that the typical student spent roughly an hour on various subways or buses to get to the old Flushing campus. “Our students come from all over.”
The building’s interior was completely remodeled with a rustic theme, meant to replicate a “walk through the woods,” lead designer Hana Kassem said.
Queens District Attorney Richard Brown, who has seen many CUNY School of Law students come through his office, agreed with Lippman’s ruling on the move to Long Island City.
“This transition from Main St. to Long Island City was no easy task,” Brown said. “We’re very proud of it.”
