Mikeal Rogers was a transformative figure in the Node.js community whose influence shaped the open-source landscape we know today. As the first Community Manager of the Node.js Foundation, he was instrumental in healing the community split between Node.js and io.js, bringing together developers under a unified, community-led vision.
His greatest contributions include championing the open governance models that ensured Node.js would be managed by and for its global community. These models, now used across numerous open-source projects, embodied his belief in open, neutral, and community-led institutions. He led initiatives like NodeSchool, fostered an inclusive culture welcoming to new developers, and spearheaded developer relations efforts that strengthened the entire ecosystem.
Before his passing in June 2025, Mikeal had transitioned to work on content-addressed data structures and distributed systems at Protocol Labs, continuing his mission to advance open technology. His legacy lives on in the countless developers he mentored, the communities he built, and the governance frameworks he established.
His family deeply appreciates the outpouring of support from the Node.js community and beyond. This auction represents the spirit of collaboration and generosity that Mikeal championed throughout his life.
This silent auction has been organized by friends and colleagues to support Mikeal's family during this difficult time. In the spirit of the community he helped build, we are coming together to provide financial support and show that they are not alone.
Every dollar raised through this auction will go directly to supporting Mikeal's family. There are no fees, no deductions—just friends helping friends in a time of need.
If you have any questions about specific items, the bidding process, or how to contribute, please reach out to the lead organizers: