Ricketson Law Building

In 1987, a man named Frank H. Ricketson Jr. passed away, leaving a legacy that would shape the future of legal education in Denver. He bequeathed a substantial sum of $7 million to the University of Denver, his alma mater. This generous gift, along with the later sale of the Park Hill law buildings, provided a significant portion of the funding needed to construct the new law building. The building was named the Frank H. Ricketson Jr. Law Building in his honor. The Ricketson Law Building stands as a testament to his contribution to the university. Opened in 2003, the Ricketson Law Building is a modern, $63.5 million facility located on the University Park campus, near the Ritchie Center. This state-of-the-art building houses the Sturm College of Law and the Westminster Law Library. The Ricketson Law Building isn’t just a place of learning; it’s a symbol of innovation. It holds the distinction of being the nation’s first certified “green” law building, achieving Gold Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. Ricketson’s impact on Denver extended far beyond the University. A World War I veteran, he led a vibrant life. He worked for Howard Hughes in Hollywood before returning to Denver as president of Fox-Intermountain Theaters. He contributed his time and expertise to various cultural venues and served on the boards of esteemed organizations like the Denver Center for the Performing Arts and the National Western Stock Show. Interestingly, Mary Ricketson, the former Dean of the College of Law, was his granddaughter. His influence on the city’s cultural and legal landscape is undeniable. The Ricketson Law Building serves as a modern landmark dedicated to a man who significantly contributed to both law and the arts in Denver.