Former Executive Director, Advisory Council Member Mike Lashbrook Recognized with Life Service Award

Michael Lashbrook, the Center for Alcohol Policy’s former executive director and advisory council member, was posthumously awarded the National Beer Wholesalers Association’s Life Service Award at their 84th Annual Convention and Trade Show October 3-6, 2021 in Las Vegas, NV. Mike passed away from cancer on September 4, 2021. Mike taught many of us a great deal about the alcohol industry, leadership, but most importantly, friendship. The Center for Alcohol Policy is stronger because of his tireless service and work to advance the Center’s mission. He will forever be on our minds and in our thoughts.

Mike grew up in upstate New York, and upon college graduation, moved to Washington, D.C. to begin his professional career, first interning for a U.S. Congressman and then working for 14 years at a large national organization, overseeing the legislative and political activities of a 16-state area, later on becoming a director and executive staff member. He moved to Michigan in March of 1989 to become President of the Michigan Beer and Wine Wholesalers Association.

After Mike retired in 2015, he chose to continue educating and advocating for responsible state-based alcohol regulation and public health and safety by serving as the Center for Alcohol Policy’s first executive director and had recently transitioned to a member of the Center’s Advisory Council. Mike was also recently been appointed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and was deeply honored to serve on the seven-member body of Michigan’s Natural Resources Commission.

Mike was a leader, a mentor and a friend. But above all else, he was a family man with a big heart who was happiest spending time with Debra, his wife of nearly 50 years, his children, grandchildren, three brothers and their families. An avid outdoorsman, he was especially passionate about fly fishing and always ready to cast his line in both fresh water and salt water destinations.

Mike did so much to build the Center for Alcohol Policy and his legacy lives on in all the important work the Center continues to do on behalf of responsible state-based alcohol regulation. Your support is crucial to expand that work. If you feel inclined to make a donation in honor of Mike, you can do so below.