Aspida Life Insurance Company (“Aspida”), a life insurance and annuity company, announced on Friday that Linda Forte has joined its board of directors, bringing significant knowledge and expertise in business affairs and leadership to the board.

Forte has more than 40 years of corporate executive and C-suite experience, retiring as senior vice president of business affairs and chief diversity officer at Comerica Bank. While there, she was responsible for driving – and leading – the organization’s culture for inclusiveness, equity, and corporate social responsibility and placing a strong focus on improving and sustaining bottom-line profitability.

“We are thrilled to welcome Linda Forte to our board of directors,” said Lou Hensley, chief executive officer of Aspida Holdings Ltd., Aspida Life’s direct parent. “I know everyone – partners and clients alike – will benefit from her passion, leadership and experience. Her insight and direction will be invaluable as we continue protect dreams by enhancing our suite of capabilities and delivering a best-in-class experience to those we serve.”

Civic-minded and forward-thinking, Forte has played a key role in advancement and strategy for many organizations, serving on public, nonprofit and private boards. She is currently a board member of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Life Secure Insurance Company, and First Independence Bank. Forte is also the board chair of the Michigan Gaming Control Board, chair of the Economic Development Corporation for the City of Detroit, and a mayoral appointee as a commissioner for the Detroit water and sewerage department. Additionally, Forte also serves as a board member of Racquet Up Detroit, a nonprofit focused on youth development through sport.

Forte attended Bowling Green State University where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science with honors. She also received her master’s in business administration with a concertation in finance and accounting from the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business. Forte is also an active member of the National Association of Corporate Directors, Women’s Corporate Directors, the Executive Leadership Council, and the International Women’s Forum.