The Atlas Performing Arts Center announced Tuesday the appointment of Jarrod Bennett as executive director.
Bennett, currently the director of operations at the Atlas, will succeed Douglas Yeuell, who has led the Atlas since 2014.
鈥淎s the new executive director of the Atlas鈥 am excited to share my vision for the future,鈥 Bennett said. 鈥淭he Atlas has long been a beacon of art and culture, and it is my mission to ensure it continues to thrive as a vibrant hub for the community. My vision is built on four pillars: forming new and lasting partnerships, making the arts accessible, innovative programming, and arts education. I look forward to working closely with our community and partners to bring this vision to life. Together, we will ensure that the Atlas Performing Arts Center remains a cornerstone of creativity, culture, and community enrichment.鈥
The selection marks a new chapter for the Atlas and Bennett brings a wealth of experience, innovative ideas, and deep commitment to serving the D.C. community, the organization said in a statement.
鈥淲e are delighted that after an extensive national search led by Board member Steven Brose and a dedicated search committee, Jarrod Bennett has been chosen as our new executive director,鈥 said Donna Rattley-Washington, chair of the board for the center. 鈥淲e were impressed by Jarrod鈥檚 proven leadership, strategic planning, and vision for the Atlas and are excited to work with him in his new role. Jarrod has been a vital member of the Atlas team and will be an excellent leader for the future of the Atlas.鈥
Bennett is known as a highly skilled administrator and musician with more than 20 years of management experience in the military as well as the public and nonprofit sectors. In 2017, he became the technical director of the Gay Men鈥檚 Chorus of Washington, D.C., and joined the Atlas as director of operations in 2022.
Jane Lang, Atlas founder and chair emeritus, said she is “thrilled” about the selection.
鈥淛arrod has demonstrated his stellar management, production, personnel, and technical skills at the Atlas for the past three years,鈥 Lang said.