The Academy Center of the Arts announces that Geoffrey Kershner, who has served as CEO for the past decade, will step down from his position in December of this year. Kershner will work with the Board of Directors and leadership team to ensure a smooth and strategic transition for the organization during this time.
During Kershner’s tenure, the Academy Center of the Arts underwent unprecedented growth and transformation. The centerpiece of his leadership was the $30 million restoration of the Historic Academy Theatre, now a landmark destination for the arts in Central Virginia. Under his guidance, the organization grew by over 400%, significantly expanding its programming, outreach, and community impact. This growth included the launch of Academy in Motion, a subsidized mobile arts instruction program serving Lynchburg and surrounding counties, as well as the opening of The Music Hall at 722 Commerce Street—a small-capacity venue dedicated to showcasing local music.
“It has been a great honor of my life to lead the Academy Center of the Arts and to work alongside such an incredible team of staff, board members, and community partners. But just as artists know when to leave space in a composition, leaders must also know when to pass the baton,” said Kershner. “Together, we have transformed the Academy into a vital cultural institution for Lynchburg and the region. The organization’s evolution over the last 10 years is evidence of what our community can be. Our buildings, in their restoration and use, and our programming have been all about coming together when so much pulls us apart. The Academy is evidence of our best selves.”
For his next act, Kershner will expand his focus to the national stage, continuing to advocate for small, community-based arts initiatives through his Small Town Big Arts platform, which features a website, blog, podcast, and online forum. “I’m passionate about using my experience in Lynchburg to support a broader community of arts and nonprofit leaders across the country,” he said. “This national work is more important than ever.” This winter, Kershner will join Ryan Ripperton Consulting, a Richmond-based, nonprofit strategy and leadership company, and additional professional opportunities will be announced in the coming weeks. Kershner will serve as Chairman of the Board for Virginians for the Arts and will join the Board of Directors of the Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation. Geoffrey, his wife, Ashley Kershner, and their son will remain Lynchburg residents.
The Board of Directors has already begun the succession planning process and will work closely with Kershner over the next few months to ensure continuity and stability. The Academy will provide regular updates to stakeholders as the succession process moves forward. In the meantime, the organization remains steadfast in its mission to foster arts and culture in Lynchburg and beyond.
