The papers of Thomas Roach measure fifty-four linear feet and date from 1970 to 2002. These records document the public career of Roach as a Regent of the University of Michigan and a longtime active participant in the Michigan Democratic Party. The papers are divided into three series: Democratic Party Files, Board of Regents Files and Post-Regental Activities.
Thomas A. Roach is an attorney, an active participant within the Michigan Democratic party, and an elected public official. Born in Akron, Ohio on May 1, 1929, Roach graduated from the University of Michigan Law School in 1953. He commenced the practice of law in Detroit, Michigan, and eventually became partner in different Detroit and Ann Arbor law firms.
Beginning in the early 1970s, Roach began taking an active leadership role in local and statewide Democratic politics. Locally, from 1971 to 1975, he served as vice chairman of the 14th Congressional District Democratic Organization. Within the state party organization, he served in numerous positions, including chairman of the platform and resolution committee (1971-1974); party treasurer (1975-1987); and as convention parliamentarian and a member of various committees. In 1975, Roach ran successfully for public office as a regent of the University of Michigan and served in this position until 1990.
