James Liggins Jr.

Trustee James L. Liggins Jr. is a seasoned attorney at Warner Norcross + Judd in Kalamazoo, where he manages a diverse portfolio that includes commercial litigation, property disputes, real estate concerns, criminal defense, health care issues and emergency manager matters.

A lifelong resident of Kalamazoo, Trustee Liggins' journey into higher education began over 40 years ago at Western Michigan University through its Hands-On Science Training Program, which aimed to motivate Black students to pursue studies in science and mathematics. Reflecting on this experience, Trustee Liggins says:

“In this full-circle experience, I am honored to join the WMU Board of Trustees in ensuring that WMU continues its same commitment to access, inclusiveness, discovery and growth that inspired me so long ago.”

In addition to his legal practice, Trustee Liggins is deeply involved in the community, serving on the boards of the Harold and Grace Upjohn Foundation, the Bronson Healthcare Group, the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts and Greenleaf Trust. He also played a key role in founding Kalamazoo’s indigent defense organization, Kalamazoo Defender.

Trustee Liggins holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Michigan and a Juris Doctor from Michigan State University College of Law.