Idaho State Board of Education Approves Long-Term Lease for ICOM

The Idaho State Board of Education unanimously approved a 40-year lease for the proposed Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine (ICOM) located at the Idaho State University-Meridian Health Science Center at a regularly scheduled board meeting in Pocatello last week.

The lease agreement stipulates that while both parties will remain separate independent entities, it establishes a public/private collaboration that is "intended to both facilitate and enhance (the) University's ability to accomplish its health science mission, core themes and strategic plan, and to assist ICOM in accomplishing its mission to establish a private College of Osteopathic Medicine on the University’s Meridian Campus."

“It is a smart, synergetic partnership with Idaho State University,” said Dr. Robert Hasty, dean of the proposed Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine. “ICOM’s mission aligns with ISU’s health science mission and we’re looking forward to a long and successful partnership.”

“We are pleased with the progress in this partnership and how it is proceeding in its benefit to ISU and the Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine," said ISU President Arthur Vailas. "Significant progress is being made that will eventually lead to the enhancement of clinical and academic programs at ISU. We appreciate the Idaho State Board of Education's support.”

As part of the lease agreement, ICOM students will be permitted to use Idaho State University facilities, including the information technology center, the health center, the library and the fitness center. Pending accreditation, ICOM anticipates breaking ground on the property in February of 2017.