Ismael Ahmed dies at 78 in Farmington, Michigan
Fatal Farmington, Michigan death of Ismael Ahmed – Obituary
Ismael Ahmed, 78, a longtime community activist, public servant, and cultural leader in metro Detroit, has died at his home in Farmington, Michigan. Ahmed passed away on January 31 after a brief battle with cancer, according to his family.
Ahmed was widely recognized for founding the Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services (ACCESS) and serving as its executive director for 25 years, transforming it from a small volunteer-run organization into a major nonprofit with significant community impact. He also helped launch the Arab American National Museum, hosted the global music radio show “This Island Earth” on WDET 101.9 FM, and founded Detroit’s annual Concert of Colors festival.
In addition to his community work, Ahmed served as director of the Michigan Department of Human Services under Governor Jennifer Granholm, becoming the first Arab American to hold a major state cabinet position. He later worked as associate provost for metropolitan impact at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, overseeing programs connecting students with community projects across the region.
Born in Brooklyn, New York, to an Egyptian father and Lebanese-American mother, Ahmed moved to Dearborn as a child. He spent much of his life advocating for Arab Americans and marginalized communities, emphasizing grassroots empowerment, cultural exchange, and social justice.
Ahmed is survived by his wife Margaret, five children, and nine grandchildren. In honor of his life, celebrations are planned at the Concert of Colors festival, scheduled for July 15–19, 2026. Donations in his memory can be made to the festival.