Gordon Named President/CEO Of JALC

(CelebrityAccess MediaWire) —
Derek E. Gordon has been appointed as president and CEO of Jazz at Lincoln Center (JALC).
He will oversee the day-to-day administration of the organization, which in October of 2004 opened the doors to its new home, Frederick P. Rose Hall, the first performing arts facility designed specifically for jazz. Previously executive director of the organization, he will focus on the planning and execution of educational and performance programming during the upcoming 2005-06 season and beyond. As president he will also lead the organization's effort to expand the reach and impact of that programming nationally and internationally. He brings to the role over 25 years of experience in a career at not-for-profit arts management.

"From his many years with various arts organizations, Derek has established himself as a real leader in the performance community," said Chairman of the Board Lisa Schiff. "This invaluable experience combined with his thorough understanding and love for jazz has been, and will continue to be, a great asset to Jazz at Lincoln Center and our first complete year in our new home at Columbus Circle."

"We are delighted to announce Derek E. Gordon as the new Jazz at Lincoln Center president and CEO," said Artistic Director Wynton Marsalis. "He shares our commitment to entertain and educate people around the world with first- class jazz music. We are extremely fortunate to have someone with his experience and dedication to lead us even deeper into our mission: to elevate through the art of swing."

"I appreciate the confidence of the board and its appointment of me to the position of President and CEO," said Gordon. "I'm proud to be part of this organization, and I am committed to furthering the national and international mission of Jazz at Lincoln Center. "During the past year, we have done what once seemed impossible by opening Frederick P. Rose Hall. As Jazz at Lincoln Center develops its plans for the 2005-06 season and beyond, we will continue to broaden the public's awareness and appreciation of this unique American art form."

Before joining Jazz at Lincoln Center, Gordon served 12 years as senior vice president of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, where he was responsible for the overall planning, management and supervision of programs and operations in the areas of jazz, education and outreach. Prior to that, he worked as executive director of Pennsylvania Council of the Arts and Louisiana Division of the Arts. He has served on numerous boards, commissions and panels for such organizations as the National Endowment for the Arts, The Mid-Atlantic Arts Foundation and the U.S. Department of State. He has also served as representative on international delegations to several countries including Spain, Sweden, France, Cuba, and Denmark. –Jane Cohen and Bob Grossweiner