Of course, Mike was much more than just the sum of his many roles in the organization; he was family to us, and we mourn and celebrate him as such. Simply put, there would be no MAC without Mike Berman’s dedication, energy, prudence, and love. Love is a critical component in any summary of his work with our organization. Mike loved the arts – he was a talented photographer and mentor to many photographers, a sensitive and knowledgeable curator, a soulful music enthusiast, and overall supporter of the craft and creative forces of art in all of its forms. Mike gave MAC tough love during challenging financial decisions, steadying the ship with honesty, caution and great care at every turn. Most of all, Mike Berman showed love through his tireless, selfless commitment to being a team player in every sense of the expression. Down on his hands and knees, Mike – a former home inspector, among numerous other vocations in his rich life – supervised the unglamorous installation of cove moulding to bring the MAC gallery up to code in its first year. He showed up at every concert that we ever hosted, manning the donations bucket at the back of the room and helping to set up and take down the concert seating and lighting that we put together.

Mike served with distinction as a Board member, Treasurer, PhotoEx Chair, Library Exhibit Chair, gallery guardian and so much more. In each of these roles, Mike was all in. Through every facet of his involvement, Mike created an abundance of warm and wonderful memories with everyone here at MAC and each person even tangentially connected with the organization. Mike helped to pour the foundation in every sense, and there is simply no replacing him. We are here now to miss him, celebrate him, and try in every way to continue his legacy of commitment.

Mike, we love you and we will never forget you. Thank you, Mike Berman, from the entire MAC family.