With a mix of gratitude and bittersweet sentiment, LMB shares that John is stepping down as Executive Director of the League of Michigan Bicyclists. Over the past decade, John’s dedication, vision, and leadership have been instrumental in making LMB the voice for bicyclists across Michigan. Please see his personal message below.
From John Lindenmayer, League of Michigan Bicyclists
Big news! After 20 years with this incredible organization, 10 of which I have served in my current capacity, I have decided to step down as Executive Director of the League of Michigan Bicyclists. It’s not easy to leave such an unbelievable job and amazing organization. Change is always bittersweet. I will miss being part of such an impactful nonprofit, but I am excited for the opportunity to slow down, spend more time with my family, and to explore new opportunities.
I am very proud of my role in growing LMB into the organization we are today. It has been incredibly fulfilling to advance our mission to improve life through bicycling. LMB is strong with great things ahead. The staff is amazing, as is the Board of Directors. Our membership and broader base of support is growing and thriving. LMB’s programming and advocacy efforts continue to make a meaningful impact on bicycling across the state. While I am officially passing the torch, I’m optimistic for LMB’s future.
I started with LMB in 2004 as Lucinda Mean’s administrative assistant in the basement of the building LMB still calls home today. I then became Program Assistant, working my way into fruitful work as the Advocacy and Policy Director, and have served the last 10 years as the Executive Director. I am endlessly grateful to have been part of LMB’s journey and to have witnessed firsthand the impact of our mission in action. Together, we’ve grown LMB from a small but mighty organization into a thriving, effective advocate for bicycling across Michigan.
This growth is not just my legacy but a testament to the LMB community. LMB is not a one-person show; it’s a movement powered by an outstanding staff, a dedicated Board of Directors, an engaged membership, and countless supporters and partners. We’re doing great things, and the best is yet to come.
As I look back, I am proud of how we improved the landscape for bicycling in Michigan. Together, we’ve passed meaningful policy and legislation – making the Michigan Vehicle Code more bicycle friendly to significant legislative wins such as our Complete Streets, Hands-Free, and Safe Passing laws. We worked to bring bikes aboard Amtrak trains, made important improvements to driver’s education and speed limit setting, and secured millions of dollars in state funding to support safer bicycling. We also fended off attempts to strip away nonmotorized funding and other efforts to undermine the rights of bicyclists. There is more work on the horizon, with bills like our e-bike incentive and Vulnerable Roadway User package, well-positioned to pass before years-end.
In addition to our legislative victories, we’ve expanded LMB’s reach, launching the Better Bicycling grants and other funding efforts that have awarded hundreds of thousands to inspiring local nonprofits. The absorption of the Michigan Mountain Bike Alliance within LMB has strengthened our impact even further.
What I am really proud of though, is LMB’s reputation as an effective organization. As a small nonprofit with limited resources, we have a track record of getting things done. LMB’s legacy is one of integrity, grit, and commitment, and it’s been sustained by the generosity of our supporters and passion of our community. I’m confident this legacy will live on and LMB will continue to be the strong, unwavering voice for Michigan bicyclists.
I am overflowing with gratitude for the opportunity to have led LMB for the past decade and proud to have contributed to our collective achievements. My time here has provided me countless opportunities for personal and professional growth. My appreciation extends to all of the diverse community partners I’ve had the privilege to work with. I’d like to thank the LMB board – past and present – for their leadership and guidance over the years, and especially to former Executive Directors Lucinda Means, Rich Moeller, and Rick Oberle for their mentorship.
My thanks go out to the entire LMB team. The tireless advancement of the organization’s mission by current and past staff members has truly been inspirational. It’s been a privilege to lead and collaborate with such dedicated individuals. I will cherish the camaraderie of Team LMB.
It’s my pleasure to announce that the LMB Board of Directors has selected Jeff Carek to serve as Interim Executive Director. Jeff has done a wonderful job as our Education Director the past three years. I am confident the organization will continue to thrive under his leadership. Jeff will be available for any questions and support needed by our staff, members, and partners.
As I move into an advisory role in November, I will do whatever I can to assist Jeff through a smooth transition. I will continue to support our staff, programs, and work to raise funds for LMB through year-end. Early next year, the board will begin the search for a permanent Executive Director. LMB will continue to keep you informed throughout this process.
What’s next for me? I have lot’s of ideas percolating, but to start with, a sabbatical. I have no immediate plans to jump into a new professional role, but I’ll be keeping myself open for rewarding opportunities where I feel like I can make a meaningful impact. On a personal level, I plan to spend more time with my wonderful wife Sarah. I’m overjoyed that I’ll be more available for her and our two sons Rowan and Reid who are growing up before our eyes. My youngest son was born just days before I became Executive Director. As I celebrate my 10-year anniversary in this position, I’m excited for this life transition to spend more time with them and extended family. And I plan to put some more miles in on the bike, so I look forward to bumping into LMB members on the road and trail.
I am deeply appreciative for the trust the LMB membership has placed in me as the caretaker of this great organization. Please keep in touch and share your favorite memories with LMB. I’d love to hear what’s made an impact on you. My email, [email protected], will stay active for the time being.
Thank you for being a part of LMB and the crucial work we do. LMB will always have a special place in my heart. Moving forward, I leave with a sense of pride in all we’ve done together and a true respect for the remarkable change that’s possible when passionate people work together toward a common vision. I’ll carry the spirit of that work and unity with me into whatever comes next.
Thanks for the great ride!
With great gratitude,
John Lindenmayer, League of Michigan Bicyclists
P.S. As LMB embarks on this new chapter, your support is more essential than ever to ensure our programs continue to thrive. If you’d like to make a gift in support of LMB’s mission during this time of transition, we invite you to do so here. Every contribution strengthens our work for better bicycling across Michigan. Thank you for being part of this journey with us!
Click the collage for a closer look at moments from John’s journey with LMB.
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