The Wayne State University Law School has received a $175,000 grant from Comerica Bank in support of the planned Damon J. Keith Classroom Building and Center for Civil Rights. The building and center are being named in honor of the distinguished federal judge, and the gift was presented officially to the university on April 10 at a gathering in Keith’s chambers at the federal courthouse in Detroit.

Comerica has committed $125,000 for the building and an additional $50,000 for future programming at the Damon J. Keith Center for Civil Rights.

The new facility at the Law School will showcase parts of the extensive Damon J. Keith Law Collection of African-American Legal History, established at Wayne State in 1993; the widely acclaimed “Marching Toward Justice” exhibit, which traces the history of the 14th Amendment; and the “Saluting a Giant” exhibit, an impressive collection of photos and memorabilia focusing on Keith’s career.

In addition, the school has established the Damon J. Keith Endowed Visiting Professor of Law position as the academic focus of the Keith Center.

“Comerica is proud to support this important project that means so much to the Wayne State University Law School and our entire community,” said Caroline Chambers, Comerica Bank corporate contributions manager. “A man of purpose, Judge Keith’s long-demonstrated commitment to equal opportunity for all people and his love for Detroit are uplifting sources. This project ensures future generations will benefit from Judge Keith’s vast contributions to society and the noble principles he has stood for.”

Law School Dean Frank H. Wu noted, “This gift is another testament to Judge Keith\'s standing within the community and his civic contributions over an impressive career. It is an honor to work with him. Comerica has long been known as a corporate leader in diversity, just as Judge Keith has been known for standing up on behalf of civil rights. It is a fitting match.”

Comerica Bank is a subsidiary of Comerica Incorporated (NYSE: CMA), a financial services company headquartered in Detroit. Comerica Bank locations can be found in Michigan, California, Texas, Arizona and Florida, with select businesses operating in several other states, Canada and Mexico.

Wayne State University is a premier institution of higher education offering more than 350 academic programs through 11 schools and colleges to 30,000 students.