Remembering J. Michael Bernard, Dedicated LIFT Board Member

A Statement from Nigel Francis, CEO & Executive Director, LIFT:

Mike Bernard was a true gentleman—an accomplished scholar, trusted advisor, and friend to all. We are devastated by his sudden passing but will remember him for all his contributions to LIFT, our community, our state, and our nation.

For more than a decade, since the inception of LIFT, he served as Corporate Secretary and external counsel to the ALMMII Board of Directors, providing exceptional service marked by integrity, sound judgment, and unwavering professionalism. In 2025, he expanded his role on the Board serving as a Director and led the Nominations & Governance Committee with the same steady hand and principled leadership that defined his career. He was always the voice of reason in the room, generous with his time, thoughtful in counsel, and selfless in service.

The ALMMII Board of Directors and the entire LIFT staff are profoundly grateful for his contributions—not only to the organization, but to the City of Detroit, the State of Michigan, and our country. 

Mike was a caring and faithful man, a role model to many. He will not be forgotten. May he rest in peace.