In Saturday’s (12/5) Argus Leader (South Dakota), Jay Kirschenmann writes, “The executive director of the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra has resigned to pursue other jobs, orchestra officials announced Friday. Tom Bennett, 45, began as executive director of the orchestra 14 years ago and has served as CEO for the past three years. David Xenakis, a retired Sioux Falls businessman serving his third year as an orchestra board member, is the interim executive director. A search for a new executive director probably will begin next month, Xenakis said. Bennett left on good terms, he said. … Bennett said he has been talking with a major symphony orchestra about a job and also is exploring other options. … ‘His dedication during these past 14 years has been extraordinary—you don’t usually see that length of time in an arts organization,’ said Michelle Lavallee, orchestra board co-president. ‘This orchestra has gone to the next level here during his time here, with the hiring of a second string quartet and now working on a new strategic plan.’ ”
Posted December 7, 2009
