Louis Keating, a 1952 College of Law graduate, has been named the recipient of the 1997 John Courtney Murray Award, the highest award given by DePaul University College of Law’s Center for Church/State Studies.

John Courtney Murray is a theologian, scholar and the principal architect of Vatican II’s "Declaration on Religious Liberty," which affirmed the necessity of liberty and conscience in the pursuit of truth. The center has recognized individuals, who have shared these values while contributing to furthering ht center’s mission.

"At a time when cultural wars threaten to divide us, especially in the area of religion and society, Louis Keating has sought to bring groups and organizations together to solve problems rather than confront each other in litigation or public battle," according to Craig Mousin, executive director of the center.

Mousin said that Keating is always seeking ways to bring disparate groups together for discussions at the center.

He actively works with religious and other not-for-profit institutions on the legal issues involving volunteerism, having authored "Guidelines for Charities for Reduction of Volunteer Liability," which is used as a guidebook throughout the state.

Keating was a partner at Kirkland and Ellis prior to his retirement. He is active in several community, religious and legal organizations, well as serving on the center’s board of directors.

Former award recipients include: Martin E. Marty, Fairfax M. Cone Distinguished Service Professor, University of Chicago Divinity School; the Rev. John T. Richardson, C.M., chancellor and former president of DePaul University; Msgr. John Egan, DePaul’s assistant to the president for community affairs; Robert Wood Lynn, Alban Institute; and James A. Serritella, Mayer, Brown & Platt and a founder of the center.

Operating under the direction of more than 50 board members the center has received funding from foundations and individuals to support academic debate on the liberties and protection of the First Amendment. The center is non-denominational and does not assume positions on constitutional issues or become involved in litigation.