Ohio State’s Moritz College of Law to relocate to historic Huntington building

The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law, and other university services, will move into downtown Columbus, placing students, staff and faculty at the center of the city’s legal, policy, civic and cultural crossroads.

Once home to the Huntington National Bank Building, this historic downtown landmark at 17 S. High St. is distinctively beneficial to the Moritz College of Law. Just minutes from many of the flagship law firms that recruit from the college, the move will embed students closer to professional opportunities at a scale few other facilities can match.

It also brings Ohio’s flagship university into the heart of Columbus – enabling world-class researchers and scholars to engage with decision-makers and create an even greater impact.

“Ohio State’s land-grant mission calls for us to be deeply connected to the community we serve. Our Moritz College of Law is central to that excellence, driving academic distinction and public impact,” said Ohio State President Ravi V. Bellamkonda. “Moving the college to this historic facility in the heart of downtown will give our students greater access to internships, future employers and city policymakers – a truly immersive experience for Ohio’s future legal leaders. I’m grateful to our partners at Huntington, the city and Downtown Columbus, Inc. for their vision and support in creating extraordinary opportunities for our students, faculty and staff to engage with our community and contribute to Ohio’s vibrant future.”

The project reflects a coordinated public‑private partnership between Ohio State, the city of Columbus, Downtown Columbus, Inc. and Huntington Bank.

"By establishing a nationally recognized law school in downtown Columbus, this initiative advances the city’s goals of economic growth and downtown resilience,” shared Mayor Andrew Ginther. “It also benefits students and strengthens the city’s ability to retain and grow our workforce. This partnership underscores Columbus’ position as a hub of talent, governance and innovation."

Downtown locations have become more common for university colleges of law. Universities are increasingly locating key academic programs in the hearts of cities – integrating education with the environments where professions are practiced.

“Being within walking distance to courts, policymakers, law firms and public-interest organizations dramatically expands opportunities for externships, clerkships, clinical experiences and meaningful mentorship,” explained Kent Barnett, dean of the Moritz College of Law. “This location also amplifies the impact of our faculty’s research and community-focused programming, allowing us to engage more directly in our land-grant mission while visibly shaping the rule of law.”

The facility will also provide opportunities for various colleges and university administrative offices to use as needed, expanding educational programming, experiential learning, and connections with private and public sector partners downtown.

“For 160 years, Huntington has called the corner of Broad and High home, and we’re proud to support the future of this core part of downtown Columbus,” said Steve Steinour, CEO of Huntington Bank. “The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law will bring new energy and opportunity to the heart of downtown Columbus, creating a dynamic environment for students, faculty, staff and alumni. Huntington is proud to partner with Ohio State and Downtown Columbus, Inc. on a project that reflects our shared commitment to the continued vitality of our city.”

Downtown Columbus, Inc. will serve as the developer and lessor, leading the renovation of the existing building. Ohio State will occupy the space as a tenant under a 30‑year lease, with an option to purchase the property in the future.

“When we toured Phoenix several years ago, we saw firsthand the mutual benefits that come from connecting a major university with a thriving downtown,” said Alex Fischer, board member of Downtown Columbus, Inc. “There’s a unique energy when education and innovation intersect with the momentum of business, culture and civic life. Those benefits are even greater when you consider the tremendous scope and breadth of The Ohio State University, and the remarkable growth downtown Columbus has experienced over the past decade. I commend Mayor Ginther and President Bellamkonda for their leadership and vision in taking this idea and turning it into a reality.”

Ohio State expects to open its downtown location in fall of 2029.