Kalamazoo Times

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has reappointed Kelly K. Burris and James L. Liggins Jr. to the Western Michigan University Board of Trustees for new eight-year terms, extending their service until December 31, 2032.

Burris and Liggins were initially appointed to fill vacant seats with terms ending on December 31, 2024. Burris joined the board in February 2023, while Liggins began his tenure in January 2024.

Kelly K. Burris is the owner and founder of Burris Law, PLLC, an intellectual property law firm based in Detroit. She holds a Juris Doctorate from St. Louis University, a Master of Science in materials science and engineering from Washington University, and a Bachelor of Science in aeronautical engineering from Western Michigan University. Her previous roles include partnerships at several national IP boutique firms. Recently recognized by her peers for inclusion in the 2025 edition of The Best Lawyers in America for Patent Law in the Detroit Region, her firm was also named a Best Women-Led Law Firm by Michigan Lawyers Weekly in 2024.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Chambers honored Burris as a "Highly Commended" honoree for pro bono work in 2021. She serves on the Michigan Aeronautics Commission and is on the Board of Directors for the Detroit Athletic Club. As a licensed pilot with multiple ratings, she regularly flies her TBM 940 for business and charitable purposes.

James L. Liggins Jr., based in Kalamazoo, is senior counsel at Warner Norcross + Judd LLP and previously held positions as partner at Miller Canfield Paddock and Stone PLC and as an in-house litigation associate at Consumers Energy. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Michigan and his Juris Doctorate from Michigan State University College of Law.

Liggins actively participates on numerous boards including Bronson Healthcare Group where he will be incoming board chair; he chairs the American Hospital Association Committee on Governance; served as chairman of United Way of South Central Michigan's board; contributes to The Harold and Grace Upjohn Foundation; co-chairs the State Bar of Michigan Judicial Qualifications Committee; sits on the State Bar of Michigan Board of Commissioners; Greenleaf Trust; and serves on the State of Michigan Board of Ethics.

The appointments are subject to advice and consent by the Michigan Senate.

For more updates about Western Michigan University news, arts, or events visit WMU News online.