President Stuart Lowry
Indianapolis-based nonprofit organizer of the Heartland Film Festival promotes chief operating officer.
No stranger to Indianapolis and the arts, Stuart Lowry has been named Heartland’s president by the organization’s board of directors. A published children’s book author and actor, Lowry has previously held leadership positions with White River State Park, the City of Indianapolis Parks Department and The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis.
“On behalf of the board of directors, we are grateful for Stuart’s significant and timely contribution to the Festival in this transition year,” said Dan Johnson, Heartland’s chairman of the board. “He has a proven himself a true friend to Heartland, its purposes and the future.”
Acting as the organization’s chief operating officer since October 2012, Lowry has worked closely with former president and CEO Jeffrey Sparks in preparation for the role. Sparks transitioned to founder and president emeritus in August after 22 years with the organization.
“Heartland is in good hands,” said Sparks. “The 2013 Heartland Film Festival broke many records, and I see its success as a testament to a smooth transition. Stuart has been with Heartland for two Festivals now, and I’m confident in his ability to embody Heartland’s spirit, mission and legacy.”
“Working with Jeff and Dan has been a great experience,” said Lowry. “Coming in as president, I’m fortunate to be working with a spectacular staff and board of directors. For two years now I’ve seen what this team can do, and I can’t stress enough how powerful and exciting Heartland is and will be for years to come.”
Planning has already begun for the 2014 Heartland Film Festival (Oct. 16-25, 2014), with the Call for Entries period beginning in February.
