Andrew D. Hamingson Named St. Ann's Executive Director

The St. Ann's Warehouse Board of Directors today announced the appointment of Andrew D. Hamingson as Executive Director. Mr. Hamingson will assume the post on March 1.

Mr. Hamingson's appointment is an extension of the consulting work he has done for St. Ann's over the past year as the Principal in A.D. Hamingson & Associates, a development and strategic planning services company. St. Ann's Founder, Artistic Director and Board President Susan Feldman engaged Hamingson to assist the organization in envisioning its future. After months of analyzing St. Ann's structures and ambitions, it occurred to both that working together was the right "fit" for moving the organization forward. St. Ann's recently signed a lease on a new space in DUMBO, just blocks away from its current home of 11 years, at 38 Water Street.

This is a crucial step for St. Ann's Warehouse. As St. Ann's first Executive Director, Mr. Hamingson will partner with Ms. Feldman and the St. Ann's Board to lead the transformation of 29 Jay into a flexible, open performance venue, comparable to the original St. Ann's Warehouse on Water Street, as well as lead the organization's search for a permanent home. The new St. Ann's Warehouse is scheduled to open for the 2012-2013 season, following the conclusion of St. Ann's final season at 38 Water Street this June.

Ms. Feldman shared her enthusiasm about the appointment: "It became apparent to the Board and to me that if we were to succeed in securing a permanent home, our organizational structure and staffing would have to keep pace with the achievements and ideals of the programming-that we needed additional executive leadership at the highest level to tackle the fundraising, real estate, and institutional challenges ahead. And we needed someone wonderful and accomplished we could trust to hit the ground running. The more Andy and I talked, the more I kept thinking, "Why not Andy?" It was a great relief when I finally asked Andy, "Why don't you do it?," and he agreed.

Mr. Hamingson said, "I have been attending performances at St. Ann's since I first moved to Brooklyn more than 20 years ago. Over the past several years I have become closely acquainted with Susan and the organization on a professional basis and have been greatly impressed by her artistic vision and uncompromising excellence. Susan, the Board, and the staff of St. Ann's have helped to lead an arts renaissance in Brooklyn, and I couldn't be happier with the cultural gift they have provided our incredible borough, the greater New York City area, and the world.  I am profoundly honored to be serving as their first Executive Director and to help lead St. Ann's during this period of artistic and financial growth. I look forward to ensuring our future in Brooklyn."

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