Wayne State University will host a reception to mark the tenth anniversary of the death of Wayne State University alumnus and former Detroit City Council Member Kenneth V. Cockrel on Thursday, May 6, from 6- 8 p.m. at St. Andrew's Church, located just north of Warren Avenue, just east of the Lodge Expressway.

The reception, "A Room for Kenny," will support a fund that will be used to name a portion of the new WSU Law School Building, scheduled to be constructed beginning in June.

Featured speakers will be Wayne State President Irvin D. Reid, Detroit Mayor Dennis

W. Archer; Cockrel's widow, Detroit City Council Member Sheila M. Cockrel, and their daughter, Katherine V. Cockrel; and Cockrel's son, Detroit City Council Member Kenneth V. Cockrel, Jr. Wayne State University Law School Dean Joan Mahoney will preside.

The reception will also feature a short videotape about Cockrel and a collection of art work depicting him.

Kenneth Cockrel was a tireless community activist and an outstanding trial attorney. In the words of Detroit Free Press columnist Susan Watson, Cockrel "fought to make fairness and decency a part of the life of ordinary folks." During his tenure on the Detroit City Council, Cockrel served with distinction and determination. At the time of his death in 1989, he was a leading prospect to become Detroit's mayor.

The public is invited to attend this salute to Cockrel, but admission is by advance reservation. Admission to the reception costs $100, $75 of which is tax deductible. To reserve your attendance, contact Irma Cabello, Wayne State University Law School, at (313) 577-3984.