Leon Seemann joins Cultural Tourism DC as director of finance with more than nine years of nonprofit financial and operational experience. He assumed his role at the nonprofit coalition of 185 arts, heritage, cultural, and community organizations October 9, 2007.

In his new position, Seemann will establish, implement, and maintain financial management policies and systems, as well as oversee accounting, human resources, and information technology. He will also provide leadership during the organization’s upcoming long-range strategic planning process.

Seemann served eight years at Studio Theatre, a leading performing arts venue in the nation’s capital. During this time, the theater grew financially, from a budget of $2.5 million to $4 million, and physically expanding from a two-theatre 23,000 square foot building to a four- theatre 53,000 square foot performing arts complex.

As general manager, he oversaw the administration of a theatre and acting conservatory that produced 11 productions per year with 32 full time staff, 7 apprentices, and more than 350 students per year. Seemann’s daily responsibilities included finance, human resources, facilities management, and information technology. Highlights of his tenure as general manager included the purchase and renovation of two apartment buildings to create reliable housing options for out-of-town artists, and development of an apprentice program that attracts talented college students.

Prior to becoming general manager, Seemann served as director of business and technology. In this capacity, he oversaw the research and implementation of a new central database and assisted the managing director with a $13 million renovation of the primary facility. He also served as director of business and personnel management and business manager.

He holds a BS in Theatre Administration with a minor in Business from Towson University (Towson, Maryland). He has also pursued graduate work at the International Center for Hebrew, Jewish, and Israeli studies at the WUJS Institute, in Arad, Israel.

About Cultural Tourism DC

Cultural Tourism DC (CTdc) strengthens the image and economy of Washington, DC, neighborhood by neighborhood, by linking more than 175 DC cultural and neighborhood member organizations with partners in tourism, hospitality, government, and business. CTdc offers an innovative model for maximizing the economic impact of cultural tourism in urban neighborhoods and helps residents and tourists discover and experience Washington's authentic arts and culture. For more information, visit www.CulturalTourismDC.org.