AFI Dallas announces leadership change

by John P. Meyer

Hot-off-the-presses news from the AFI Dallas International Film Festival: Stephanie Hunt will take over Chairman of the Board duties from current Festival Founder, Chairman and Director Liener Temerlin, effective Sept. 1, 2008. Mr. Temerlin will continue to be involved in the organization in the titular capacity of Chairman Emeritus.

Michael Cain will stay on as Artistic Director and CEO.

Says Temerlin: “From the very beginning, I committed to three years as chairman. Now that a very solid foundation has been established by our Board and Sponsors, it is time to pass the reins on to new leadership. But I hope to be involved with AFI DALLAS for the rest of my life.”

Ms. Hunt, a Dallas Native, has served on the AFI Dallas board since the organization's inception. Her background is in investment banking and restaurant ownership, and she also serves on the board of The da Vinci School. Her interest in film is extensive - she undertook a filmmaking curriculum at NYU and has produced documentaries through the Hunt Collaborative.

"I’m honored and humbled to be asked to follow Liener, states Stephanie. "He has made such an incredible contribution to Dallas with this film festival. I have learned a great deal from working closely with Liener over the past year and he has assured me that he will always be available to continue to provide the board with his advice, counsel, and creative input.”

The AFI Dallas organizational plan calls for board leadership to serve for three years and then continue on the board; it's hoped that this structure will serve to assure organizational continuity.

source: AFI Dallas