National Symphony Orchestra director Jean Davidson has left the Kennedy Center to lead the Wallis Annenberg Center in Los Angeles, as turmoil grows under President Donald Trump’s control.
The Wallis announced Friday that Jean Davidson had been appointed executive director and CEO. Before joining the Kennedy Center in 2023, Davidson had served for eight years as executive director and CEO of the Los Angeles Master Chorale at The Music Center.
“The arts are where a community sees itself, and where it imagines what’s possible next,” Davidson said in a statement. “I’m honored to join the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Arts at this pivotal moment.” Kennedy Center President Richard Grenell said in a statement to The Associated Press that she was among those who deserved “enormous credit” for their efforts. “I have enjoyed working with Jean to cultivate new donors and patrons while cleaning up the financial mess at the ,” he said. In a statement to The Associated Press, Davidson said: “It has been a great honor to serve the NSO and to work alongside Gianandrea Noseda, Steven Reineke, the extraordinary musicians, and the dedicated staff and board. I’m deeply proud of everything we’ve accomplished together.” Davidson told the Los Angeles Times that she had found it “more and more difficult” to remain at the Kennedy Center, “given the external forces that are at work that are just so far beyond my control.” After mostly ignoring the center during his first term, Trump has made it a focal point in his war against so-called “woke” culture.” He ousted the Kennedy Center's previous leadership and replaced it with a hand-picked board of trustees who voted to rename the facility the Trump Kennedy Center, a change scholars and lawmakers say must be initiated by Congress. Renée Fleming, Philip Glass and Bela Fleck are among numerous artists who have called off performances, and the Washington National Opera ended its decades-long residency. Last month, Trump said he would move to close the center this summer for construction he expects to last two years. At the Wallis, Davidson succeeds Robert van Leer, who recently left to join the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation as performing arts program director. Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.I feel raindrops! Scattered showers and thunderstorms are riding the sea breeze!I feel rain drops! Scattered showers and thunderstorms are riding the sea breeze!Longer yellow lights, digital ID protections included in proposed Florida transportation billFSCJ Manta Rays reach NJCAA mascot final; community urged to voteTeachers raise alarm over bill requiring unions to show support from 50% of employeesSt. Johns County Sergeant who pulled driver from fiery I-95 crash recounts rescueJacksonville’s PATH program shows early progress reducing downtown homelessnessIt's gonna be warm! Start hydrating early for Gate River RunJustice 4 All: How proposed legislation could impact homeowners with poolsMayor Deegan approves 3 a.m. alcohol sales downtown; some News4JAX viewers question safetyHow Florida’s fishing license change could impact touristsBig changes runners need to know for Gate River Run ExpoMan charged after 1 killed, 2 wounded by gunfire at construction site in St. Johns County1:03Bus company confirms driver removed from service after unauthorized person boards school busOceanway residents disappointed in committee’s decision to approve storage unit developmentUNF poll finds that Florida voters are split on Trump's immigration policyHappy clouds on a Happy Humpday. When will we get some rain?Photos show Jacksonville-based Navy ships, helicopters playing key roles in ‘Operation Epic FuryHow the Middle East conflict will affect travelSt. Johns County deputies pull man away from fiery crash on I-95Jacksonville HIV advocate warns of crisis as thousands lose medication accessPassion 4 Pets: Taco is looking for his furever home 🌮Race director's Top 5 things to know for a successful Gate River Run -- with a bonus from MelanieRace director's Top 5 things to know for a successful Gate River Run -- with a bonus from MelanieLIFT JAX, Swisher announce $135M expansion to create jobs for Eastside residents
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National Symphony Orchestra director leaves Kennedy Center amid exodusNational Symphony Orchestra director Jean Davidson has left the Kennedy Center to lead the Wallis Annenberg Center in Los Angeles, as turmoil grows under President Donald Trump’s control. On Friday, the Wallis named her executive director and CEO. Davidson joined the Kennedy Center in 2023 and previously led Los Angeles Master Chorale.
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Kennedy Center exodus continues as National Symphony director Jean Davidson heads to the WallisTrump has pushed the center as a target in his fight against so-called “woke” culture.
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