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Michelle Ebanks

President and CEO, The Apollo

Michelle Ebanks is the President and CEO of the Apollo Theater, the largest African American performing arts center in the nation.13 She was appointed to this position in June 2023, succeeding Jonelle Procope.1

Background and Experience

Prior to joining the Apollo, Ebanks had an extensive career in media, entertainment, and live events:

  • She previously served as CEO of Essence Communications1
  • At Essence, she oversaw:
    • Essence magazine, the leading lifestyle magazine for African American women
    • Essence.com, an award-winning online destination
    • The Essence Festival of Culture, one of the largest annual live music events globally1

Her earlier career included:

  • President of Essence Communications Inc.
  • General manager and financial director for Money magazine at Time Inc.
  • Vice president in Time Inc.'s corporate division, where she led the acquisition of Essence
  • Corporate business manager for Condé Nast's 13 titles1

Vision for the Apollo

As President and CEO, Ebanks aims to:

  1. Expand the Apollo's physical footprint, including the new Victoria Theaters
  2. Support artists at every stage of their careers
  3. Collaborate with partners across Harlem and internationally
  4. Offer a platform for African American artists across the diaspora1

Ebanks sees her role as continuing the Apollo's profound impact on Black culture and American culture at large, both locally and globally.1 She is focused on deepening the Apollo's roots in the community, expanding its role as a civic and economic cornerstone of Harlem, and serving as a cultural leader within New York City and the global community.2

Highlights

Jun 7 · youtube.com
Apollo Theater President Michelle Ebanks shares vision for the future
Apollo Theater President Michelle Ebanks shares vision for the future
Jun 7 · cbsnews.com
As the Apollo Theater prepares for its 90th Anniversary Spring ...
Dec 14 · washingtonpost.com
Michelle Ebanks on legacy and future of the historic Apollo Theater
Michelle Ebanks on legacy and future of the historic Apollo Theater
Jun 6 · nytimes.com
Michelle Ebanks Named President and CEO of the Apollo
Michelle Ebanks Named President and CEO of the Apollo

Related Questions

What are Michelle Ebanks' key achievements at Essence Communications?
How does Michelle Ebanks plan to enhance The Apollo's cultural impact?
What challenges does Michelle Ebanks face in her new role at The Apollo?
How has Michelle Ebanks' leadership style evolved over her career?
What are the main goals of The Apollo's Apollo Rising 2.0 capital campaign?
Michelle Ebanks
Michelle Ebanks, photo 1
Michelle Ebanks, photo 2
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Location

New York, New York, United States