Transformative Leadership Revolutionizes Accessibility of the Arts

When you think of New York City’s Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, do you think of audiences in tuxedos and ultra-exclusive highbrow programs? Henry Timms, President and Chief Executive Officer of Lincoln Center has been on a mission to show all that they’re welcome at the iconic arts complex.

In a recent New York Times profile, Timms declares that it’s time for Lincoln Center “to loosen up a little.”

As chief executive, Timms has already overseen the completion of a $550 million renovation to fully modernize David Geffen Hall – home of the New York Philharmonic – with state-of-the-art design and technology as well as accessibility that is far above industry standard.

In The New York Times, the authors describe how Timms is both figuratively and literally tearing down walls at Lincoln Center with more diverse programming and staff, choose-what-you-pay ticket initiatives, and plans to remove the literal barriers between the campus and adjacent schools and housing projects.

Former President and CEO of New York City’s 92^nd Street Y, which was named one of Fast Company’s most innovative companies during Timms’ leadership tenure, he is no stranger to recognizing growing cultural movements and instilling longstanding institutions with modern values and accessibility to all. Timms and co-author Jeremy Heimans outline this dynamic in their 2018 bestselling book, “New Power: How Anyone Can Persuade, Mobilize and Succeed in our Chaotic, Connected Age.”

To relate to wide audiences, institutions old and new must balance tradition with modern values. Stern Strategy Group connects you with renowned thought leaders whose insights, strategies and management frameworks help organizations fuel growth and disruptive innovation to better compete in a constantly changing world. Let us arrange for these esteemed experts to advise your organization via virtual and in-person consulting sessions, workshops and keynotes.