FLORA ROMAYA ( from left), power partner and Comerica Bank team member joins Kim Howard, walk director for the Natiional MS Society MI chapter; Karen Hogan, Comerica Bank employee and Captain of Detroit Team; Patti Cartledge, Comerica Bank employee and captain of Grosse Pointe team and Peter Burton, chairman, National MS Society MI chapter and member of the board of directors.

Mike Lawson may not be an NFL coach, but he knows how to lead a winning team. The Comerica Bank senior vice president led a team of nearly 200 employees across the finish line in the 2007 Multiple Sclerosis Walk, earning Corporation of the Year honors from the National MS Society, Michigan Chapter.
 
“While it is indeed a great honor to be named Corporation of the Year, the real satisfaction comes from being able to assist an organization which means so much to the people of our community,” said Lawson, who served as the bank’s executive champion and received the award during the Society’s annual meeting and volunteer recognition luncheon that took place last month at the Troy Hilton Hotel.
 
“This is a partnership that Comerica values and we look forward to working with the National MS Society on a state and national level for many years to come, as we continue to make great strides to end the devastating effects of this disease.” Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disease that involves the central nervous system, specifically the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves. MS can cause problems with muscle control and strength, vision, balance, sensation and mental functions. More than 18,000 people have been diagnosed with MS in Michigan. “Participating in the MS Walk is both a personal and a community interest for me,” said Lawson.
 
“I had at one time earlier in my career a number of people on my team with MS. From then on, I began to take a greater role in Comerica’s participation.” Raising about $30,000 during this year’s walk, Comerica’s contribution will assist with research, programs and services. The bank has raised more than $100,000 over the last five years.

“Comerica’s corporate support coupled with their dedicated team members in the Walk MS are to be commended,” said Elana Sullivan, president of the National MS Society, Michigan Chapter. “They represent a true partner in helping us to create a world free of MS.” For 2008, Comerica Bank is already getting a jump start on other corporations by becoming one of the first to double its sponsorship commitment in the 2008 Walk MS from $5,000 to $10,000. “MS is a widespread disease.

Being a part of the walk sets a good example and it’s fun,” said Lawson. “People who volunteer are fun to be around. They’re positive, optimistic people. Participating in the walk is the right thing to do for the community.”