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PAS Executive Director Resigns

July 31, 2012

Executive Director Michael Kenyon has announced his resignation from the Percussive Arts Society effective October 26, 2012. Michael has accepted the position of President and CEO at the Partnership for Philanthropic Planning in Indianapolis, Indiana. Michael’s legacy leaves PAS with a strong foothold for further growth and development for years to come. Percussive Arts Society thanks Michael Kenyon for his distinguished service as Executive Director. We wish Michael continued success in his future endeavors.

His eleven-year tenure places Michael as the longest-serving Executive Director in the history of the Percussive Arts Society. Through ardent leadership, he has been a major influence in establishing the Society as the model music organization in the 21st Century.  During his time with PAS, Michael was instrumental in modernizing the Society, including online member benefits, an expanded advertising structure, and utilizing technology for advancement in member services.  PAS has watched steady improvement of revenue and membership growth over the years thanks to Michael’s initiatives. Under Michael’s leadership and with the assistance of Jeff Hartsough, PASIC was redeveloped within an administrative capacity; resulting in an increase in PASIC attendance every year and smoother operations assistance for artist services, performances and PASIC offerings.

“The opportunity that I have had over the last eleven years has been simply amazing,” stated Michael. “There is no other job like this in the world. PAS is a remarkable organization; proud, progressive, vital and visionary. Working alongside the leaders of PAS who were responsible for creating and building this organization has been humbling and gratifying. My heartfelt thanks go out to each and every member, leader and industry partner that took the time to share their thoughts, make suggestions and most of all share their passion for percussion and friendship. As a proud member of PAS, I cannot wait to see what amazing things will be accomplished in the years ahead.”

Michael Kenyon leaves the Society after leading a highly successful national search and relocation of the PAS headquarters and museum to Indianapolis, Indiana in 2005-2007. He was central in the creation of Rhythm! Discovery Center, an interactive percussion museum and home for the PAS Archives. Through Michael’s leadership, Rhythm! Discovery Center is now listed as a top destination for music making in the United States. The Percussive Arts Society recently completed its year-long 50th Anniversary celebration under Michael’s administration, which included the commissioning of a new percussion concerto by Joseph Schwantner, the documentation of the Society’s first 50 years, and special celebrations culminating at the triumphant PASIC 2011.

Lisa Rogers, President of the Percussive Arts Society, said of Michael: “I have had the pleasure of working alongside Michael Kenyon in my role as PAS President over the past 18 months. He has been the consummate professional and an incredible advocate for PAS. I am happy for and proud of Michael as his valuable work at PAS has propelled him towards such a wonderful new job opportunity. I along with the current Executive Committee, Board of Directors, Staff and entire membership will be forever in Michael Kenyon’s debt for fostering our mission so successfully worldwide over the past eleven years. As a percussionist himself, I know he will remain a very proud and active member of PAS. So, don’t be surprised if you see him at future PASICs!!!”

“Although we will soon miss him working daily at PAS, the Executive Committee and Board of Directors now moves forward positively and enthusiastically with a search for a new Executive Director,” continued Lisa. “The search is already in its beginning stages with more details available soon.”

Percussive Arts Society