What was Tabitha Jackson's previous role?

Before joining Film Forum, Tabitha Jackson served as the director of the Sundance Film Festival and also led the Sundance Institute's Documentary Film Program.

When did Film Forum's previous director step down?

Long-time head Karen Cooper stepped down in January 2023 after 50 years, and her successor, Sonya Chung, stepped down in July 2023 after two years.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Film Forum Taps Sundance Vet for New Leadership

Film Forum Taps Sundance Vet for New Leadership

Q: Who is the new director of Film Forum?

Tabitha Jackson, an industry veteran with over 30 years of experience in independent and non-profit media, has been appointed as the new director of Film Forum.

2 Feb

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Summary

Tabitha Jackson, with 30+ years in media, appointed Film Forum director.
Jackson previously led Sundance Institute's Documentary Program and Festival.
She steps into the role following recent leadership changes at Film Forum.

Tabitha Jackson, a distinguished figure with over 30 years of experience in independent and non-profit media, has been appointed the new director of Film Forum. Her career spans work in both the U.S. and her native England. Jackson's extensive background includes research fellowships with prestigious institutions like MIT Open Documentary Lab and Harvard Kennedy School's Shorenstein Center. She also previously directed the Sundance Institute's Documentary Film Program, where she supported hundreds of filmmakers, and later became director of the Sundance Film Festival in 2020. She led the festival through two pandemic-era virtual events before stepping down in June 2022. Film Forum itself has experienced recent leadership shifts, with Karen Cooper stepping down in January 2023 after 50 years, followed by Sonya Chung's departure in July 2023. Jackson, a resident of Greenwich Village and a longtime attendee of Film Forum, expressed her enthusiasm, stating the appointment feels like "coming home" to a place that embodies her career's values. She is celebrated for her passion for film and strong management in the arts, aiming to lead Film Forum into its next vibrant chapter.