Kathleen Kennedy, producer and president of Lucas Films has been elected chair of the American Film Institute Board of Trustees. Kathleen succeeds Howard Stringer, who served in that capacity since 1999. Robert A. Daly continues his 10-year reign as Chair of the Board of Directors of the institute. Speaking on her new appointment, Kathleen disclosed, "It is a distinct honor to be elected as chair of the AFI Board of Trustees. AFI's commitment to the power of storytelling, coupled with its profound respect for the past is an inspiration in our modern day and I look forward to working with the Trustees and the incomparable Bod Daly with the goal to shine an even greater light upon the impact these stories have in our nation and around the world." Leaving his lifetime position behind with greater confidence, Stringer describes Kathleen, "I pass the torch to Kathleen Kennedy with great confidence, for she is a visionary who has not only served as an AFI Trustee, but will also lead the institute into the future with her signature taste, talent and intellect." Kennedy will help the AFI Institute guide its educational programs and set new initiatives. BY: Larry Adams