With $3 million in state appropriations, the School of Medicine has announced the establishment of the Wayne State University Morris Hood Jr. Comprehensive Diabetes Center.

The advanced research center will support, sustain and improve the superior diabetes research and patient care now ongoing at the School of Medicine.

The center will create research, clinical care and community outreach programs to improve the health of citizens with diabetes. WSU's diabetes program was awarded a vote of support and confidence by Gov. John Engler, who signed Senate Bill 905 to grant funding to establish the center.

With continued support the center will become a premier site for advanced diabetes research and care.

"This is a great asset for our entire community," said George Grunberger, Henry L. Brasza Professor of Internal Medicine, director of the Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics and director of the Center for Clinical Research. "We can now fully integrate our services to provide the latest technology, quickest advances and best treatment options for our patients."

The center is named for State Rep. Morris Hood (D-Detroit), a longtime supporter, advocate and friend of WSU.

An announcement and naming ceremony will take place Wednesday, Sept. 16 in Scott Hall as part of a legislative breakfast during a weeklong series of university events celebrating the inauguration of Irvin D. Reid as WSU's ninth president.

For more information about the diabetes center call the Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics at (313) 577-5323.