Central District Forum founder and head to step down

Founder and executive director of the Central District Forum for Arts & Ideas, Stephanie Ellis-Smith, will depart her post next year. After more than 10 years of leadership, Ellis-Smith said she will step down in June 2009.

Ellis-Smith launched the Central District Forum (CD Forum) after working for the Jacob Lawrence Catalogue Raisonné Project, an extensive undertaking that documented the work by the pioneering African-American artist.

"She's founded and has led an amazing organization," said Donna Moodie, chair of the CD Forum board of directors. "I think the gift that she has brought to Seattle has truly been a legacy. I'm excited to continue to work on it."

The CD Forum, a nonprofit, sought to encourage thought and debate around African-American art and culture. Its 2008-09 season includes civic dialogues, a history series, artist residencies, readings, lectures and performances. The next production on the bill is Obie Award-winner Daniel Beaty's piece "RESURRECTION," playing at Broadway Performance Hall, 1625 Broadway, Seattle, Sept. 12-13. Last year, Beaty's Broadway-bound one-man play, "Emergence-SEE!," sold out at the CD Forum.

The CD Forum board has already formed a task force to find a successor. Ellis-Smith will continue as a member on the advisory board.

Marian Liu: 206-464-3825 or mliu@seattletimes.com