20 Sep Volunteer Turned Executive Director: Kent Lee to Lead Pacific Arts Movement
After a nationwide search, Pacific Arts Movement (Pac Arts), one of the largest media arts organizations in North America that focuses on Asian American and Asian international cinema, is proud to announce Kent Lee as Executive Director of the non-profit.
“On behalf of the Board of Directors, we are thrilled to appoint Kent Lee as our new Executive Director,” said Stephen Chin, Pac Arts Chairman of the Board. “Not only does Kent demonstrate a thoughtful leadership approach, as well as a talent for strategic development, he is also passionate about community advocacy and engagement.”
He succeeds founding Executive Director, Lee Ann Kim, who retired earlier this year after 16 years of remarkable service. “Lee Ann established Pac Arts to bridge differences,” continued Chin, “and through her creativity and tenacity, Pac Arts developed into an important voice for our community. With Kent’s unique combination of skills, Pac Arts will broaden and deepen its impact within our community.”
Since 2010, Lee has been involved in Pac Arts in various ways, starting as a volunteer for special events and on various committees. He eventually joined the Board of Directors in 2014 and from there, was named Board Secretary in 2015 and Chairman of the Board earlier in 2016. Now, as Executive Director, Lee will oversee staff and year-round operations, develop community engagement efforts, and work alongside the Board of Directors to further the Pac Arts mission.
“As a Pac Arts volunteer in 2010, I would never have expected the incredible privilege to step into this leadership role within the organization six years later,” said Executive Director Kent Lee.
“Year after year, I’ve been continually moved by the unique way Pac Arts’ mission inspires a movement of compassion in the San Diego community. “
Throughout Lee’s career, he’s had a consistent focus on improving the lives of San Diegans through community involvement. Prior to accepting the Executive Director position, Lee was the Director of Development and Marketing for the Boy Scouts of America, San Diego-Imperial Council and had been involved in the company for nine years. Lee also serves on the boards and committees of numerous civic organizations, including the Asian Business Association, Asian Pacific Islander Advisory Group to the Mayor of San Diego, Mira Mesa Community Planning Group, International Deaf Education Advocacy and Leadership, and Alpha Phi Omega, a collegiate community service organization.
Lee is especially excited about elevating Pac Arts’ potential. “I look forward to leading an organization that not only presents great film made by Asian and Asian American artists, but more importantly, that serves our community in a positive and culturally enriching way.”
L to R: Deb Hall, Pac Arts Board Vice-Chair; Kent Lee, Executive Director; Lee Ann Kim, Former Executive Director; Stephen Chin, Board Chair