The Kennedy Center has selected Chicago Symphony Orchestra president Deborah Rutter as its new president, the organization announced Tuesday.
“The Kennedy Center is fortunate to have found in Deborah an individual with an undeniable passion for and knowledge of the performing arts; a long, well-respected track record of managing and enhancing performing arts organizations; and a commitment to making the performing arts accessible and appealing to people of all ages and backgrounds,” Kennedy Center chairman David M. Rubenstein said in a statement.
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In her time with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Rutter oversaw bringing on Maestro Riccardo Muti as musical director and acclaimed cellist Yo-Yo Ma as creative consultant.
Rutter will assume the reins from current Kennedy Center president Michael Kaiser on Sept. 1, 2014. Kaiser has served in the position for 13 years.