Wayne Law Alumnus Assists Wayne Law with Planned Gifts
Mike Witzke, ’89, is an estate planning attorney who loves what he does. He derives great satisfaction from working with individuals to understand their financial and philanthropic goals, and then assisting them to assure their assets will be handled according to their wishes. As a service to his alma mater, Witzke is working with Dean Robert M. Ackerman and the development staff to encourage planned gifts for the future of the Law School.
Witzke knew it would be a perfect fit when he was invited to become a volunteer for Wayne State University as a member of the Planned Gifts Committee, a position he has held since 2000. An active member of the committee on behalf of Wayne Law, Witzke has given presentations at alumni gatherings to encourage planned gifts to the School.
“There is a planned gift for everyone who would like to leave a legacy through a charitable contribution,” Witzke said. “There are so many options. A well thought-out planned gift can be of assistance to the donor’s family and also be a tremendous help to Wayne Law.”
Witzke is creating his own planned gift by naming Wayne Law as a beneficiary for a portion of the remainder of his 401K, a tax-wise gift. At maturity, the gift will be unrestricted to use at the Dean’s discretion for scholarships, research or other academic pursuits benefiting Wayne Law. However, planned gifts also may be restricted to reflect the donor’s specific interest.
As an extension of his volunteer capacity on the Planned Gifts Committee, he is offering to give complimentary consultations to all Wayne Law alumni interested in creating their personal legacy at the Law School. His e-mail is mike@witzkeberry.com or he can be reached at (248) 971-1700 during regular business hours.
A native of southeast Michigan, Witzke grew up in Port Huron and graduated from Troy Athens High School. Going to law school was a late decision for him.
“As with many Wayne Law students, I had to pay my own way,” Witzke said. “Going to school close to home was a good choice for me. I had a great experience at Wayne Law.”
Witzke is the first in his family to go to law school and he credits Wayne Law with helping him attain success in the profession he loves.