‘Joana Vicente Resigns as CEO of the Sundance Institute’

Joana Vicente, the CEO of the Sundance Institute, is stepping down from her position after two and a half years. Sundance Institute Board Chair Ebs Burnough praised Vicente for her advocacy for independent storytellers and expressed confidence in her continued positive impact on the community.

During her tenure, Vicente navigated the challenges of the pandemic, overseeing the transition of the Sundance Film Festival to a virtual format and later returning as a hybrid version. Amanda Kelso, a board member with 25 years of experience in communications and technology, has been appointed as the acting CEO. Kelso will officially take over in April, with Vicente providing guidance until June.

Kelso expressed her belief in the mission of Sundance and its significance in nurturing emerging artists. The Sundance Institute offers year-round programs for new talent, including directing and screenwriting labs that have supported filmmakers like Ryan Coogler, Chloé Zhao, and Quentin Tarantino early in their careers.

The organization’s commitment to fostering artistic talent remains strong, with Kelso poised to lead the way in continuing this important work.