To the Sundance community,
As we look to the future of the Sundance Institute, I am filled with both pride and humility as I take on the role of Acting CEO. It is an immense honor to return to lead during this pivotal time for arts organizations and, more specifically, independent storytellers. I believe in the power of Sundance and its ongoing impact in nurturing our mission-based work. This work is dedicated to the discovery and development of independent artists and connecting them with audiences around the world.
As a trustee of this non-profit for over four years, I have had the privilege of working closely with Joana Vicente. I first want to thank Joana for her meaningful contributions to the Institute and wish her well as she begins her next chapter. She has been a tremendous asset to both the Institute and our global community of artists, especially during some of the industry’s most challenging times. I am appreciative that Joana will be available as an advisor to me and the board in this transition. I know she will continue to make a positive impact on this community, and I look forward to seeing what she does next.
In this new role, I am keen to work closely with the Sundance leadership team, our board chair, Ebs Burnough, and my fellow trustees in the capacity of Acting CEO. I am eager to begin collaborating with the wider team on developing the next strategic plan for the Institute’s continued advancement, while both upholding Robert Redford’s vision and ensuring the Institute’s long term sustainability and growth well into the 21st century.
I intend to bring my over 25 years of experience as a creative communications and brand leader, working in a variety of global community focused places like Google and Instagram, to my leadership of Sundance. Throughout my career, I have been dedicated to building communities and have always admired and been inspired by the community that makes up Sundance. At its core, this community includes a diverse array of global artists, whom the Institute has had the great privilege of helping to nurture and propel their visions forward. It also encompasses the broad audiences that gather to experience the magic of storytelling, the funders who generously support our work, the volunteers who devote their time, and, of course, the dedicated staff who have committed their careers to championing the artists and this organization.
As I jump into leadership, my goal is to further cement the place Sundance has in this greater ecosystem. We are at an important moment in time where the impact of the work we do to support artists matters enormously. In this time of transition, I am reminded of the wisdom imparted by our founder, Robert Redford, who advised, “Don’t be shy of taking risks. It can be the catalyst that propels you forward.” It is with this spirit of boldness and innovation that I plan to approach the future together.
I’m excited to be on this journey with you all, and I look forward to the impact we can have on uplifting storytellers.
Thank you,
Amanda Kelso
