Wills Ward Lounge

Inside of the Willis ward Lounge Lounge, October 5, 2024, by Moumita Das.

Champions Lounge

by Moumita Das

Filled with comfortable rocking chairs, oversized lounge chairs, and sofas all illuminated by natural light that pours in from the oversized windows, the Willis Ward Lounge in the University of Michigan’s Union is one of the coziest spots on campus. It’s a place where you can do your homework, hang out with friends, or just chill after a long day. In it's name, it holds important history of the university that you probably wouldn't guess while relaxing in the inviting space.

The lounge is named after Willis Ward, star of the 1931 Michigan Wolverine football team and first Black football player on the team (Swenson et al.). You might have heard Ward’s story, even if you’re not familiar with his name, as it highlighted racial discrimination embedded in early college football. Georgia Tech refused to play Michigan because of Ward's participation as an “African-American player” (Swenson et al.). Despite facing racism, Ward's accomplishments paved the way for future Black athletes and garnered him recognition, leading to the dedication of this lounge in his honor (source).

The name Willis means "resolute protection," (Grace) fitting for Ward, who was born in Birmingham, Alabama, in 1912 during a time of severe segregation and racial terror (Swenson et al.). After relocating to Detroit, he encountered a group of University of Michigan alumni who recognized his exceptional skills during his final year of high school and urged him to consider enrolling at Michigan.

Willis Ward UM ID photo (1931), courtesy of UM Bentley Library.

While he excelled as a football player, Ward truly shone on the track, specializing in the long jump, high jump, and hurdles ("Wills Ward"). During his time at Michigan, he became an “eight-time Big Ten champion and a three-time NCAA All-American, contributing to Michigan's five Big Ten team titles (three indoor, two outdoor) and helping the teams achieve top five national finishes four times ("Wills Ward"). In addition to his athletic achievements, Ward also built a successful career in law and pursued political work (Swenson et al.).

In 2015, the Wills Ward Lounge was dedicated to honor both Ward’s athletic contributions and the wider history he represents (Swenson et al.). It's the perfect spot to focus and feel at ease. Scattered around the room are comfortable chairs, inviting guests to sit and relax while enjoying their favorite beverages. The sweet aroma of coffee fills the air, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes the lounge feel even more inviting. Nearby, the UM alum-owned Sweetwaters Coffee and Tea offers a delightful variety of drinks and tasty snacks, adding to the charm of the space. Whether you need a quiet corner to focus on your studies or a fun place to chat with friends, the Wills Ward Lounge has it all. This lounge is not only a comfortable study area but also a tribute to the building’s heritage and the legacy of Willis Ward.

Works Cited

Das, Moumita. Willis Ward Lounge nameplate, 5 Oct. 2024. Author's personal collection.

Das, Moumita. Inside of Willis Ward Lounge, 5 Oct. 2024. Author's personal collection.

Grace. “Willis Origin and Meaning." Nameberry, nameberry.com/b/boy-baby-name-willis. 17 Oct. 2024.

"Photo of Wills Ward U-M registration I.D. 1931." UM Bentley Historical Library, University of Michigan, exhibits.bentley.umich.edu/s/willisward/page/michigan-man. Accessed 17 Oct. 2024.

Swenson, Emily et al. “Wills Ward More than the Game" virtual exhibit, UM Bentley Historical Library, University of Michigan, n.d., exhibits.bentley.umich.edu/s/willisward 17 Oct. 2024.

“Willis Ward.” University of Michigan Hall of Honor, MGoBlue.com, University of Michigan, n.d., mgoblue.com/honors/university-of-michigan-hall-of-honor/willis-ward/37. 17 Oct. 2024.

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