Ballet Arizona Executive Director, Samantha Turner, has announced that the 2021-2022 will be her last with the ballet, after serving the organization for nine years, including six as executive director. She leaves the organization as it emerges from the pandemic in the strongest financial position in its history.

The Chair of Ballet Arizona's Board of Directors, Miranda Lumer, stated Turner has stewarded the ballet to its current position through her dedication, leadership, and vision. “Samantha has been with the organization for almost a decade and in that time, she has helped build and solidify relationships with donors to secure millions of dollars in funding, recruited and retained some of the most impressive staff members I have ever met, and kept the organization intact throughout the COVID-19 crisis,” Lumer said.

“Samantha became Executive Director around the same time I joined the Board of Directors and since then I, along with my fellow board members, have developed an incredible bond with Samantha built on trust and respect for her intellect, work ethic, generous and thoughtful spirit, and grit.” Lumer said. “She will be missed, but I look forward to hearing all the incredible things she accomplishes on her next stop.”

Over the next five months, Turner will work to ensure a smooth transition of executive leadership. Artistic Director Ib Andersen continues his tenure of more than 20 years providing the artistic vision for the company.

Ballet Arizona’s Search Committee, headed by Board of Directors Vice Chair Michael Bolar, is working closely with m/Oppenheim to conduct a nationwide search for the company's next Executive Director. m/Oppenheim has deep experience with non-profit performing arts organizations.

"It has been an honor to serve as Ballet Arizona's Executive Director, and a pleasure to work with an extremely talented group of professionals and a highly committed board,” said Turner. "I'm confident that Ib Andersen and the next Executive Director will lead the organization to new heights, continuing to provide the community with exceptional experiences."

Ballet Arizona is grateful for Turner’s commitment to the organization over the past nine years and wishes Turner all the best in her future endeavors. For information on Ballet Arizona and to receive updates on the search for the next Executive Director, please visit balletaz.org.

Ballet Arizona is dedicated to preserving and celebrating classical dance while creating new and innovative works. Under the artistic direction of internationally acclaimed choreographer Ib Andersen – a former Principal Dancer with The New York City Ballet and The Royal Danish Ballet – Ballet Arizona follows his lead to the future of dance in Arizona. The School of Ballet Arizona promotes access to the art form of ballet through dance education, with a focus on excellence in the form, directing each student to a life-long love of dance. Following this vision, Ballet Arizona connects to more than 35,000 children and families every year through its free and low-cost outreach programs. For more information, visit balletaz.org.