NMC joins the community in mourning Helen Milliken, wife of former Michigan Gov. William Milliken, who died at her Traverse City home Nov. 16, 2012. She was 89.
With her husband, Mrs. Milliken was the namesake of Milliken Auditorium at NMC’s Dennos Museum Center, reflecting her lifelong commitment to the arts. She was also known for her strong advocacy of environmental issues and women’s rights. She was named an NMC Fellow, the college’s highest honor, in 1990.
Gene Jenneman, Executive Director of the Dennos Museum said Mrs. Millken’s contributions to the arts go beyond NMC.
“The many tributes that will be made in her honor and recognition cannot begin to capture and express the significance of her contribution to the arts in the state. Perhaps the most notable being Artrain, which brought quality fine art and artists to thousands of people in small communities throughout Michigan. Artrain continues that effort, but now on a national level as well. She was a force for good and inspiration to us all. We will be forever in her debt.”
Mrs. Milliken is survived by her husband and their son, Bill Jr. A daughter, Elaine, preceded her in death in 1993.
From the NMC Archives: Governor and Mrs. Milliken