As part of United Cerebral Palsy’s (UCP) National Board of Trustees, Mark R. Lezotte brings decades of legal experience and passionate advocacy to his volunteer leadership. From shaping nonprofit governance structures to influencing national disability policy, Mark’s contributions exemplify the lasting impact of expert volunteers.
A Legal Mind Shaping Disability Policy and Nonprofit Governance
Mark is a shareholder at the Detroit-based law firm Butzel Long, where he specializes in corporate and nonprofit governance, tax-exempt issues, healthcare law, and business transactions. His extensive legal background includes serving as general counsel for a nonprofit healthcare system, providing strategic oversight to ensure compliance with both healthcare and nonprofit regulations.
Recognized in “The Best Lawyers in America” (healthcare law) since 2013, Mark’s expertise has been pivotal in strengthening UCP’s governance model and interpreting proposed legislation that affects the disability community.
“Based on my work with nonprofit clients, I’ve used my legal knowledge to support UCP’s governance and policy work. But I’ve also learned a lot about advocacy from UCP — and I bring that knowledge back into my legal practice,” says Mark.
Driving National Disability Policy Forward
Mark has played a central role in advancing UCP’s national public policy efforts. As an active member of UCP’s Public Policy Committee, he has worked to keep disability policy at the forefront of federal discussions.
Two decades ago, Mark helped establish a joint venture between UCP and The Arc, building a framework for lasting policy collaboration. That work laid the foundation for today’s partnerships, including efforts around the annual Disability Policy Seminar and cross-organizational advocacy strategies.
“We led the way in coordinating national advocacy goals with other organizations, and UCP has continued to work with those partners ever since,” he reflects.
Board Leadership at SourceAmerica
In addition to his work with UCP, Mark serves as the Board Chair for SourceAmerica, a national nonprofit that creates employment opportunities for people with disabilities through the AbilityOne program. SourceAmerica was originally founded by UCP and five other national organizations.Today, Mark works to reconnect these founding partners — UCP, The Arc, Easterseals, Goodwill, ACCSES, and JVS — to drive a unified policy voice on disability employment initiatives.
“SourceAmerica is an extension of our mission to create inclusive work environments, and it ties directly into the advocacy and program goals we pursue at UCP,” says Mark.
A Performer with Purpose
Mark’s talents extend beyond law and leadership — he’s also a longtime performer in A (Habeas) Chorus Line, a legal-themed musical parody troupe made up entirely of lawyers. With over 160 performances under their belt, the group combines humor with advocacy.
“Performing teaches you to react quickly and stay focused — skills that absolutely apply to advocacy. Policy work, like theater, is an ensemble effort,” Mark shares.
Honors and Recognition
Mark’s dedication has been recognized with UCP’s National Chairperson’s Award in both 2004 and 2019, honoring his sustained leadership in disability rights, public policy, and volunteer service.
A Lasting Impact on Inclusion and Governance
Whether in the courtroom, the boardroom, or on stage, Mark Lezotte exemplifies the powerful influence of volunteer leaders in shaping a more inclusive society. His legal insight, policy leadership, and advocacy continue to advance the mission of United Cerebral Palsy and the broader disability rights movement.
Thank you, Mark, for your service and for being a voice of hope, strategy, and inclusion for the disability community.
