To further strengthen its dedication to diversity, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has promoted Jeanell English to EVP Impact and Inclusion, Academy Executive Director Bill Kramer announced today. English will report directly to Kramer.
In this newly created executive position, English will lead the Academy’s initiatives designed to address under-representation in the industry and discover, enhance and promote the work of emerging and diverse film artists. In addition to her portfolio, English will also oversee the Academy’s various talent development programs known as Academy Gold. These programs include the Gold Rising Mentorship and Internship Program, the Gold Rising Scholarship for Women, the Academy Awards for Students, the Academy Nicholl Scholarships in Screenwriting, and the Gold Alumni Program.
English, who joined the Academy staff as Vice President of Impact and Operations in 2020, will continue to oversee the Academy’s sustainability, representation, inclusion and access, as he has previously. This includes developing standards of representation and inclusion, internal initiatives such as supplier diversity and employee resource groups, and ongoing carbon footprint assessments to inform business practices.
“For the past two years, Janelle has been an invaluable part of our Academy team,” noted Kramer. “Her commitment to diversity, equity, access and inclusion has led to advances across all departments of the Academy, as well as her contribution to creating a more sustainable and accessible institution. The Academy is deeply committed to uplifting emerging and underrepresented voices in the film industry and, in this new role, Janelle will bring her experience and insights into this important cause.
During his career, English has worked for more than ten years in the areas of global diversity and inclusion strategy, employee engagement, corporate social responsibility, intercultural training and talent management. Prior to joining AMPAS, he was a director of Discovery, Inc. (now Warner Bros. Discovery).
Cramer, who officially started on July 1 in the role of CEO previously held by Dawn Hudson, wasted no time making big changes. Jacqueline Stewart has already been appointed as his replacement as President and Director of the Academy Museum. Additionally, the Academy’s chief operating officer, Christine Simmons (who oversaw the Gold program, among other things), found herself out of the organization with no new replacement appointed or employed.
Source: Deadline
