The Center is named for Michael A. Middleton, a two-time graduate of MU with degrees from the College of Arts and Science and the School of Law. His 50-year relationship with the University of Missouri spanned experiences as student, alumnus, faculty, administrator, and system president. He also spent time as a civil rights attorney. Through his Mizzou years, Middleton was active in fighting for the rights of Black students and was instrumental in the development of the Black Studies Department. His career has focused on building bridges between people and their ideas, all with a view to creating a more unified and just future.