With over 50 students and faculty in attendance, Dean John D. Hutson gave his State of the School Address in the Rich Room on Tuesday. 

Dean Hutson began by explaining the details of the American Bar Assocation visit, which will take place from October 22-24.  Every seven years, the ABA visits accredited law schools to ensure they are complying with accreditation standards.  "We want to be honest with the ABA, but we also want to put our best foot forward," Hutson said, noting that the school has addressed many of the issues that the ABA brought up from their last visit in in 2000, including increasing library space, strengthening attendance policies, and ensuring JD students are not bumped out of classes by graduate students. 

The biggest issue that Hutson expects the ABA to bring up next week is weaknesses in the strategic plan, which he admits does "not reach far enough" to implement new ideas.  Hutson also said that an ABA staff member will be in classes on Monday and Tuesday, and students are encouraged to interact with them.

Hutson also gave a facility update, specifically addressing the construction on the third floor.  Hutson admitted that the $2.5 million project has been an inconvenience to the campus, but he is excited for the finished product.  "I appreciate your patience," Hutson said, "The school will be a lot better as a result."  Hutson expects the project to be completed by Thanksgiving. 

Hutson is also excited for admissions season.  After a significant drop in applications last year, he is optimistic that this year's applicant pool will be strong.  "There was a drop in applications across the country," Hutson said, "But we kept our standards high and this year's 1L class is great."  Hutson believes a revamped web site, which will be launched by the spring, is critical to improve the school's marketability to applicants.

Hutson also addressed the school's "vigorous" pursuit to join the American Association of Law Schools.  Pierce Law has resisted joining the organization, but Hutson believes membership will allow the school to reach out to a broader audience.  "Its easy to think that we are a quiet, little law school in Concord, New Hampshire, but it is a big world and it is important that we play in it."  Hutson also believes AALS membership will make other law professors and administrators better aware of the unique education Pierce Law offers its students, which will improve the school's reputation.