The end of Chautauqua Institution's 153rd Summer Assembly has marked a transition in leadership. Mark Coolidge Johnson officially became Chautauqua's 19th President on Monday after interim Chief Executive Kyle Keogh concluded the season Sunday evening with the ceremonial three taps of the gavel. In his closing remarks, Keogh said, "I am excited for Mark and confident in his leadership. What we hand to him is not an Institution free of challenges. It is something much more valuable: an Institution with an enduring mission, talented people, a deeply committed community and the strength to continue evolving." Johnson, a Jamestown native, said, "I come to this role ready to listen and learn. I want to hear from the people who know and love Chautauqua, including our employees, trustees, donors, property owners, patrons, partners and the many communities we serve. I also want to hear from those who have not yet found their way here, because Chautauqua's future depends in part on our ability to extend its welcome and relevance to new generations." Johnson was appointed to the post in April.
