show bio Jean Picker Firstenberg

Jean Picker Firstenberg retired after 27 years and 10 months as President and CEO of the American Film Institute on October 31, 2007. Her tenure has marked AFI as one of America’s greatest national cultural and educational resources. In addition, AFI’s role in celebrating and recognizing excellence in America’s film, television and digital media has been acknowledged worldwide. Her retirement came at the conclusion of AFI’s 40th Anniversary celebration where she was presented an AFI Life Achievement Award for service to the institute. Kirk Douglas, the 1991 recipient of the award, made the presentation to Firstenberg.

Are Artists Public Servants Too?
Date: 10/22/2008

Jean Picker Firstenberg headed the American Film Institute (AFI) for more than 25 years before her retirement in October 2007 when she was presented with AFI’s Life Achievement Award. During her tenure, Firstenberg led AFI to many advancements, ranging from the AFI Conservatory being accredited, to the opening of the AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center, a state–of–the–art center for the moving image arts in Silver Springs, Md. At the Clinton School, she gives a lecture entitled, "Are Artists Public Servants Too?"

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