Cooley mulls 'formal affiliation' with Western Michigan University
Talks are under way to determine whether the Thomas M. Cooley Law School and Western Michigan University should enter into a formal alliance.
Under the plan that is being considered, both institutions would retain their independent governance and separate finances. However, the connection that has been demonstrated by a number of joint degree programs, beginning in 2002, would be strengthened by operating the law school under a shared name, according to MLive.com and a Tuesday announcement by the university.
While the law school would continue as an independent 501(c)(3) entity, it would be known as the Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley School of Law.
“Cooley Law School and Western Michigan University share common educational and public service philosophies and have a long history of cooperation. An affiliation with this great university is an especially good match,” said Cooley President and Dean Don LeDuc in the Western Michigan announcement. “Students, faculty, staff and alumni of both institutions will benefit from the tremendous opportunities that would arise from this alliance.”
