Lesli Klainberg, who has served as president of Film at Lincoln Center for the past decade, is set to step down this coming fall after the New York Film Festival. During Klainberg’s tenure as president, the iconic film center underwent revolutionary foundational changes, becoming a three-screen film center showing a mix of new releases for audiences of all ages.

Under Klainberg’s leadership, Film at Lincoln Center also hosted many festivals and events, including twelve Chaplin Award Galas which featured distinguished guests such as Robert Redford, Catherine Deneuve, Barbra Streisand, Viola Davis, and Jeff Bridges. Klainberg was also crucial in helping the New York film community adjust to Covid-19 regulations, providing streaming screenings as well as drive-in experiences throughout New York.

“My tenure at Film at Lincoln Center has been one of the most rewarding periods in my professional life,” said Klainberg in a statement regarding the end of her tenure. “After over a decade as President and 14 New York Film Festivals come September, I am proud of how the organization has transformed and what we have accomplished. I’m leaving with a passionate and committed team in place.” Film at Lincoln Center continues to look for a new president, forming a search committee to find a suitable candidate to continue Klainberg’s legacy.