ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) — Months of searching for a new leader at the State Theatre of Ithaca have ended. Beginning Oct. 27, Lenny Brown will join as executive director.

According to a news release, “Brown brings more than 20 years of nonprofit leadership experience to the State Theatre of Ithaca, with a background in organizational management, community engagement, fundraising support, and capital improvements.”

“Throughout the interview process, Lanny impressed the Search Committee and Board of Directors with his thoughtful approach to leadership, diverse background managing nonprofit organizations and facilities, and his sincere interest in the State Theatre and the broader community,” Suzanne Smith Jablonski and Jennifer Tavares, co-chairs of the board of directors said. “We are excited that Lanny will officially join our community later this month, and to collaborate with him and the rest of the fantastic State Theatre team in the years ahead.”

State Theatre of Ithaca (file)

Brown and his wife are coming to Ithaca from Tennessee, where Brown currently works as assistant executive director of the Tennessee Bar Association.

“I’m deeply honored to become part of the State Theatre. This place is incredibly special, and for nearly 100 years it has brought people together through memorable performances and shared experiences,” Brown said. “That legacy is possible because of the tremendous work of the staff, board and volunteers, as well as generations of passionate community members who have supported this iconic theatre. I’m excited to build on that foundation by creating more opportunities for people to discover the State, develop a lasting relationship with it, and be part of its next 100 years.”

Brown’s appointment comes after the resignation in March of Doug Levine, who served as the State Theatre’s executive director for nearly 20 years.