ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) — After nearly two decades in charge, Doug Levine has left his role at the State Theatre of Ithaca. In a statement, the downtown theater announced on Feb. 26 the departure of Levine as executive director.

“His leadership guided numerous capital projects, including the recently opened concession space, expanded the scope and number of performances presented on our stage, and strengthened the organization through the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic,” according to a press release.

State Theatre’s Board of Directors President Ethan Ash called Levine, who was director for 17 years, a “community-first leader.”

“He has enriched our lives through music and community connections, and I’m looking forward to seeing where he makes his next mark for Ithaca and beyond,” Ash said.

In announcing his departure, Levine was introspective.

“I’m proud of all that we’ve accomplished together and wish the board and the amazing staff continued success in advancing the mission of restoring and preserving the historic gem that is the State Theatre, while presenting incredible programming that enriches the community,” Levine said.

The State Theatre Board of Directors says a leadership transition will be shared “in the coming weeks.”

“We are confident in the strong foundation Doug has helped build and excited about the next chapter for the State Theatre,” the Board stated.