Mariko Silver Appointed President of Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts

NEW YORK (AP) — Mariko Silver, the former head of Bennington College, has been appointed as the new president of Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, effective September 23. Silver, 46, succeeds Henry Timms, who has led the institution for five years. In her first remarks following the announcement, Silver expressed her deep connection to Lincoln Center, stating that the arts have significantly shaped her identity and aspirations. Silver's leadership will coincide with ongoing plans for the redevelopment of Lincoln Center's western campus, an area that has historically received less attention than its eastern counterpart. She emphasized the importance of creating a new focal point for the center, which she believes will enhance the experience for both New Yorkers and visitors alike. “The opportunity to build that bridge... is just extraordinary,” she remarked, indicating her commitment to moving the project forward. Under the previous leadership of Timms and chief artistic officer Shanta Thake, Lincoln Center has shifted its focus away from classical music, embracing a broader range of genres and more accessible programming. Silver reiterated the center's dedication to classical arts while also aiming to inspire a diverse audience. “We want to make Lincoln Center inspirational and aspirational for everyone,” she stated. Silver brings a wealth of experience to her new role, having held positions at Arizona State University, Columbia University, and in the Obama administration. Her academic credentials include degrees from Yale, the University of Sussex, and UCLA, where she earned a doctorate in economic geography.