Meet Lynette Howell Taylor: The New President of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences
Lynette Howell Taylor has been appointed as the new president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences by the Board of Governors. She takes over from Janet Yang, who held the position since 2021. Howell Taylor is the fifth woman to serve as president, following in the footsteps of Yang, Fay Kanin, Cheryl Boone Isaacs, and Bette Davis.
Starting her first term as president while serving as a governor representing the Producers Branch, Howell Taylor brings a wealth of experience to the role. She previously served as vice president and chair of the Awards Committee for three years. Lesley Barber and Howard A. Rodman were also re-elected as officers, with Jennifer Fox, Simon Kilmurry, and Lou Diamond Phillips joining the team for their first officer stint.
Academy CEO Bill Kramer expressed his excitement about working with Howell Taylor and the newly elected officers. He highlighted Howell Taylor's contributions to the Academy Board of Governors, particularly in revitalizing the awards work as chair of the Awards Committee. With a strong team in place, the Academy aims to advance its mission, support members worldwide, ensure financial stability, and celebrate the achievements of the global filmmaking community.
Known for her work on films like "A Star is Born," "The Accountant 2," and "Blue Valentine," Howell Taylor is also involved in the upcoming feature "Roofman." The newly elected officers include Lesley Barber as Vice President, Jennifer Fox as Vice President, Simon Kilmurry as Vice President/Treasurer, Lou Diamond Phillips as Vice President, and Howard A. Rodman as Vice President/Secretary.
According to the Academy's bylaws, board members can serve up to two three-year terms, followed by a two-year hiatus before being eligible for two additional three-year terms. Officers serve one-year terms, with a maximum of four consecutive years in any one office. With a dedicated and strategic team in place, the Academy looks forward to fulfilling its mission and supporting the filmmaking community.