Michele Thompson to Become Southampton Center's First Director
Southampton Village’s efforts to revitalize 25 Jobs Lane, the former home of the Parrish Art Museum, take a stride forward as the location’s new operator, Southampton Center, named Michele Thompson its first director.
Thompson joins Southampton Center from 92nd Street Y, where her most recent post is director of adult education. She was formerly the director of 92Y Tribeca and her resume also includes past stints as executive director of the Trisha Brown Dance Company and positions in development at Carnegie Hall, American Ballet Theatre, and Vanderbilt University.
“We are thrilled to have found Michele to lead Southampton Center,” says Whitney Stevens, a Southampton Center Board of Directors co-chair. “Michele’s deep knowledge and experience in building a new organization, marketing and development will be integral to our continued success.”
“Southampton Center has the potential to be a real force in arts and culture on Long Island’s East End as well as a warm cultural hub for the Village,” Thompson says. “I look forward to being a part of shaping this emerging institution and leading its growth.”
The center had its inaugural season of free programming over summer 2013, featuring film visual art exhibitions, live performances, workshops and children’s programs. Events also included a fair after the village’s Fourth of July parade.
Southampton Village Mayor Mark Epley said, “Southampton Center will be the heartbeat of the village for years to come and will continue to be a driving force for economic and cultural growth in our community.”
A welcoming reception for Thompson is planned Saturday, February 1 at 5 p.m. at Southampton Center, 25 Jobs Lane.