By Stephen Stirling
Ellen Kodacek, who most recently served as head of Southern Tier Celebrates, an arts organization in Binghamton, N.Y., took over the position on Jan. 1, according to Carol Conslato, vice president of the Town Hall's board of directors. Conslato said Kodacek is an ideal candidate, having done extensive work for the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts in Manhattan, Snug Harbor Cultural Center and the 171 Cedar Arts Center.”Ellen brings a breadth of professional experience, as well as a strong passion for performing and fine arts, to her new position,” Conslato said. “In every previous role, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, which will allow her to lead Flushing Town Hall in a new direction while ensuring it remains a vital part of New York City and the arts community.”Kodacek said she is excited to carry on the “rich history of the organization,” that will showcase artistic excellence and provide service to artists.”At Flushing Town Hall, New Yorkers and visitors alike will find extraordinary multi-cultural programs in a gracious setting. Making the arts a central part of life has been at the core of my career and I am honored to be charged with leading Flushing Town Hall into the future,” Kodacek said. Kodacek has dedicated her life to the arts, and is an active member of the Association of Performing Arts Presenters, Consortium of Eastern Regional Theatres, League of Historic American Theatres, New York Attractions Network, International Association of Performing Arts for Young People, and Union Internationale de la Marionnette.Flushing Town Hall, which is also known as the Flushing Council on Culture and the Arts, has been involved in a search for a new director since dismissing Nanette Rainone in May after just six months.That move came six months after the board fired former director Harvey Seifter, who had served at the helm of the group for 2 1/2 years.Reach reporter Stephen Stirling by e-mail at Sstirling@timesledger.com or by phone at 718-229-0300, Ext. 138.
