Melissa Smey
Photo: Brannon Chase |
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Columbia University has announced the appointment of Melissa Smey as the new director of Miller Theatre, effective immediately. Smey filled the role of acting director of Miller since October 1, 2008, following the departure of the former executive director, George Steel. Smey is well aquainted with the tasks ahead, having served as general manager of Miller Theatre for eight years. During that time, she was responsible for administrative, financial, marketing, and production operations. She developed long-range strategic plans, overseeing a threefold growth in Miller’s operating budget during her tenure. She assisted in creating the concert seasons, programming Miller’s Jazz series, producing touring concerts in Boston, MA, and Berkeley, CA, and overseeing major commissioning projects. Prior to her work with Miller Theatre, Smey held positions at the New York Public Library and the Metropolitan Opera. She earned a bachelor of music degree from the University of Connecticut and an MFA in performing arts management from Brooklyn College.—Condensed from the press release
