Janet Rollé Makes History as First Black CEO of the American Ballet Theatre

Posted By: Kennedy Williams on December 08, 2021

A huge congratulations to Janet Rollé for becoming the new CEO and Executive Director of the American Ballet Theatre, making her the first Black person to lead the prestigious ballet company in its 65-year history!

Rollé picked up the love of dance from her mother when she was younger, which led to her pursuing a Dance degree from the State University of New York.

According to The Philadelphia Tribune, Rollé said, “Through dance, I learned how to be a professional, the value of discipline and technique, and my love for the creative process.

These lessons have always been at the core of my professional life and work."

Though she has a passion for dancing, Rollé also has an MBA from Columbia University and impressive business background as she once served as the vice president and chief marketing officer for CNN Worldwide.

Rollé is set to begin her historical role and the legendary American Ballet Theatre at the top of next year.

“It is, therefore, a singular privilege to be entrusted by the Board to preserve and extend the legacy of American Ballet Theatre, and to ensure its future prosperity, cultural impact, and relevance. To come full circle and be in a position to give back to the art that has given me so much is a source of unbridled and immense joy,” Rollé said.

It's great to see another Black woman making history! Congratulations again to Ms. Rollé.
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Kennedy Williams
From Loganville, GA
Spelman College class of 2020
Member Since July 2016

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