| With a distinguished career that spans more than 50 years, Damon J. Keith, Senior Judge for the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, has been honored through major philanthropic gifts and pledges for the purpose of constructing a Center for Civil Rights in his name. The Honorable Judge Keith has made historic contributions to the progress of civil rights for all people, many of whom are noted in the exhibits "Marching Toward Justice" and "Saluting a Giant", both being important components of the Damon J. Keith Law Collection of African-American Legal History, and on display at the University's Law School, Reuther Library and at other locations nationwide.
The project will construct approximately 8,430 square feet of new space and include the renovation of approximately 4,000 square feet of existing space on the first and second floor of the 2000 addition. Within the new space, a two-story atrium will be designed and constructed to honor Judge Keith, along with two large conference rooms, a reception lobby, and a 60-person lecture room. The first floor renovation scope includes offices for the Keith Center director and assistant, and space for the Law Clinics, which will be moved from the library building to improve the program and support the goals of the Center. Two existing classrooms on the second floor also will be expanded. Technology will be prominent in the Center, displaying images of the Judge as well as informational materials about his life and work. Additionally, technology will be installed in the conference rooms and lecture room.
The Construction staging for the Damon J. Keith Center for Civil Rights will begin on September 20, 2010. Completion of the project is expected in late August 2011. Pedestrian and emergency vehicle access will be maintained but re-routed around the project.
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