Welcome to Wayne.

I was honored to have returned to my hometown of Detroit in 2004 to become the ninth Dean of Wayne State University Law School. As a candidate for the job, I emphasized that I wanted to be the Dean of Wayne and not just a dean of just any law school. This was my first and only choice because of the unique opportunities offered by an urban research institution.

I am proud to be back. In the summer, my family used to go to Boblo Island. In the winter, we went to the auto show. On weekends, my parents shopped at Eastern Market. Although I've lived on both coasts, I've always looked for Vernor's - and I call it “pop.”

I am motivated by more than mere nostalgia though. I am enthusiastic about contributing to the great processes of our diverse democracy. The Law School and our attorneys play an integral role in advancing our principles and ideals.

Detroit has seen better times before and it is seeing better times again. The 2004 victory of the Pistons over the Lakers is symbolic of the resurgence of a great metropolis. Our basketball team stands for teamwork, hard work, and Midwestern values. The other indicators of progress are tangible: the construction of new housing, ranging from loft conversions to single-family dwellings; the opening of new businesses, including retail stores in the Midtown area; the development of a spectacular riverfront, already underway; and the renovation of civic institutions, both for culture and entertainment.

In this setting, Wayne dominates the bench and the bar in the city and the state as few other law schools do in any region. The number of applicants for the first-year class has been increasing; students’ academic qualifications have been ever more impressive. Our alumni play leadership roles in every aspect of legal practice and public service, ranging from the large and mid-size firms, the specialized boutiques and small offices to the federal and state judiciary, the legislature, and civil rights groups. They can be found in the city of Detroit, the greater metropolitan area, Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Lansing, Traverse City, and Marquette, as well as New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Washington, D.C. Our faculty is distinguished and productive, dedicated to excellence in teaching and scholarship. They include graduates of Wayne and other top law schools, and they are sought after by our peers.

In the current and coming academic years, we will see tremendous positive changes. We have increased the Law School’s scholarship funds by approximately $1.45 million annually. We are planning to add four new tenured/tenure-track professors. We are installing wireless internet access throughout the classrooms and the latest residence hall will include deluxe suites for law students.

Please come see for yourself. I am confident you will want to join us.

Frank H. Wu

Dean

Wayne State University Law School
471 W. Palmer
Detroit, MI 48202

Dean’s Office: (313) 577-3933 (phone)
(313) 577-9106 (fax)

Admissions Office: (313) 577-3937 (phone)
(313) 577-6000 (fax)
lawinquire@wayne.edu