Tabitha Jackson has been announced as the incoming director of the Sundance Film Festival. The news was announced Sunday by the Sundance Institute.

As the first new director in 11 years, she replaces outgoing director, John Cooper, who is transitioning to a newly-created Emeritus Director role. Jackson, an award-winning filmmaker, had served as the director of the institute’s documentary film program for six years. Now she will “oversee the Festival’s overall vision and strategy while leading a senior team.”

“I founded Sundance Institute with the clear mission of celebrating and supporting independent artists,” said Sundance Institute founder Robert Redford, “and the Festival is the platform where we can showcase their stories. As we approach our fortieth anniversary, I’m pleased to have Tabitha lead us as we move into the future and meet the next generation of artists and their stories.”

“It gives me immense pleasure to announce, Tabitha Jackson, as the new Director of the Sundance Film Festival,” said Sundance Institute’s Executive Director, Keri Putnam. “Tabitha is fiercely devoted to independent artists, has been a visionary member of the Sundance Institute’s leadership team for the last 6 years. Her authenticity, experience and perspective will serve her well in leading the Festival forward as a beacon for independent artists and audiences.”

“It is exciting to be amplifying the voices and work of independent artists in these challenging and fast-changing times,’” said Jackson. “My role, working with a team at the top of their game, will be to ensure that the festival remains as effective, vital and transformational in the years going forward as it has been in the past–and to make sure that we have fun doing it. I can’t wait to get started.”

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Photo: Getty

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