Dear Members of the Law School Community,
 
Today we are heartbroken and mourning the loss of Senator Carl Levin who passed away yesterday. Since 2015, Senator Levin has been a part of our Law School family as Chair of the Levin Center and as our Distinguished Legislator in Residence. For everyone who learned in his classroom, encountered him in the hallway, or admired him for his kind spirit and integrity, this loss weighs heavy.
 
Senator Levin was the consummate statesman. He lived and breathed Detroit. First as City Council President, then as Michigan’s longest-serving U.S. Senator, and after his retirement when he chose Wayne Law to be home to the center that would bear his name. 
 
To everyone who knew him, Senator Levin will be remembered as one of the kindest, most humble, genuine and loyal individuals you would ever encounter. When he first came to Wayne Law, I’m told that he was very concerned about the size of his office. He felt it was simply too big and should really have gone to somebody else. That’s the kind of person Senator Levin was.

It would be wrong to say that Senator Levin’s passing marks the end of an era. We have lost a giant, yes. But he taught and inspired Wayne Law students to not only do something, but to do the right thing no matter the cost. Because of his lessons, he leaves behind a lasting impact for generations to come. We are all better because of Carl Levin.
 
Senator Levin’s family will hold a private funeral. Information about a public memorial is forthcoming. For additional information, please visit Senator Levin’s memorial page. If you wish to send a tribute or well wishes to his family by email, please use levin.family@wayne.edu.
 
Sincerely,
 
Richard A. Bierschbach
Dean and Professor of Law