Jed Bernstein Steps Down as Lincoln Center President

Just announced, Jed Bernstein will be stepping down as president of Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. Bernstein has decided to leave his post in order to become involved again in creating and producing activities.

A leadership transition plan will be implemented next week, under which Lincoln Center will be managed until a new president is named to succeed Bernstein.

In a letter announcing his departure as president, Bernstein wrote:

"I am writing to let you know that I have decided to step down as president of Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts.

"I have enjoyed every day at this remarkable institution, working with all of you, who are so deeply talented and creative. It has been an honor to be at the center of managing this cultural icon. But as I have considered my future, I have come to realize that the next step for me should be a return to direct engagement with what makes me happiest: creating and producing.

"I am very proud of what we have accomplished together during my time at Lincoln Center, this incredibly vital institution that continues to grow and evolve. We have developed and expanded acclaimed educational and community outreach programs - Boro-Linc, Family-Linc and Audition Boot Camp are prime examples -- in an effort to broaden our engagement with all New Yorkers, no matter their age or what borough they happen to live in. The process of reimagining the renamed David Geffen Hall is well underway and we are poised to see something very exciting and special emerge. And the list could go on and on. It's time now for someone else to take the helm.

"My profound thanks go to all of you for your dedication to Lincoln Center and its work nurturing and advancing the performing arts here in New York and around the world.

"While I will pass my responsibilities this week to the extremely capable transition team of senior LCPA staff, I have agreed to be available as needed to advise on special projects and assist with the transition. And I look forward to sharing news about my future plans shortly.

"Finally, I am profoundly grateful to Katherine Farley and the board for the opportunity to lead the world's foremost home of the performing arts. It has truly been an honor. - Jed"

Jed Bernstein was appointed President in 2013 and has led important initiatives, including expanded digital media presence, engagement of families in the arts, and high quality cultural programming for those living at or below the poverty line in other boroughs and neighborhoods far from the Center's Upper West Side home.

Katherine Farley, Chair of the Lincoln Center Board of Directors, will oversee and work closely with a transition team of senior management, led by Chief Operating Officer Liza Parker, to ensure the seamless continuation of all Lincoln Center's activities.

In addition to Ms. Parker, the transition team will be made up of LCPA staff members Vin Cipolla, Executive Director, the David Geffen Hall Campaign; Russell Granet, Executive Vice President, Lincoln Center Education, Community Engagement & International; Tamar Podell, Executive Vice President, Planning and Development; Lesley Rosenthal, Executive Vice President, General Counsel & Secretary; Dan Rubin, Financial Consultant; and Elaine Ruiz, Vice President and Acting Chief Financial Officer.

"We thank Jed for his many contributions to Lincoln Center and wish him well in his future endeavors," said Ms. Farley. "During his tenure, he demonstrated great creativity and energy and moved our institution forward on a number of important fronts. We understand and support his decision to leave Lincoln Center at this time."

Ms. Farley said the board has in formation a search committee, to immediately begin the process of finding a new president.

"Lincoln Center is in a very strong position artistically, operationally and financially, and we are excited about the continuation of its world-class programming as well as the upcoming reimagining and renovation of David Geffen Hall," said Ms. Farley.

"Lincoln Center is very fortunate to have a deep reservoir of talent, knowhow and leadership among its senior staff," said Ms. Farley. "I have great confidence that these skilled and visionary managers will continue their great work overseeing every aspect of Lincoln Center during the transition, ensuring that our mission will go forward unabated under their direction and guidance. I am very much looking forward to working with them, and all of Lincoln Center's talented employees, during this period."

Photo Credit: Walter McBride / WM Photos