Suzu Henderson, executive director of Fountain Hills Theater for the past two years, has announced that she will be leaving the organization in her current capacity effective April 22. She will return to the corporate world as director of sales and marketing for Li9 Technologies, a company she previously worked with prior to her involvement with the local theater.

“While we are sad to see Suzu leave in this capacity, we are grateful she has agreed to continue on as a member of the board of directors and will help us through the next few months as we fill her role and manage a successful transition,” said Sandi McGee, board president. “We feel very fortunate to have had the benefit of her skills and services through the difficult transition when Val Stasik, previous executive director, retired after managing the organization for 30 years.”

McGee said the previous transition was not an easy one, but Henderson’s was more than ready for the challenge.

“Suzu’s personality and skills were just what we needed to propel the organization into a new era while honoring the legacy and foundation left behind by Val,” she added. “The organization has made great strides in governance, systems, modernization and best practices, all while continuing to offer high-quality, award-winning artistic productions. We feel well-equipped to continue our journey forward with renewed strengths in all aspects of the organization.”

A two-pronged team of current leaders within the organization will step in for Henderson while a search is conducted for a new executive director. Kiera Allen, manager of finance and operations, along with Peter J. Hill, artistic and technical director, will work together to ensure continued fiscally responsible and successful operations during the transition.

“Timing for this change could not be better,” McGee said. “We are currently riding on the high of our recent Review Preview Revue, an introduction to the 2018-19 season. The program, held on March 25, facilitated the announcement of our new ticketing structure and our exciting Show Hopper Flex Pass, which is our progressive approach to adapt to the desires of our patrons. Ticket sales have been brisk and our sales team will be reaching out to encourage all of our patrons to take advantage of the new options.”

For Henderson, the departure is bittersweet.

“I came here out of my love for the theater and my children’s devotion to the Fountain Hills Theater,” she said. “I feel very proud of the accomplishments and evolution of the Fountain Hills Theater that I’ve been a part of.

“Over the past two years, the organization has successfully undergone an enormous transformation that was challenging at times. There is now a great team in place in terms of both the staff and the board of directors. Their combined energies have successfully established a firm foundation that will be the basis for continued growth. I see only good things on the horizon for the organization.”

While the theater was changing, Henderson said she was changing, too.

“While it wasn’t my intent to leave the organization after only two years my family obligations, combined with a great career opportunity for future growth, tipped the scales in the decision-making process,” she added. “Being offered a position on the board of directors allows me to stay connected to the organization and gives me the chance to help further the progress that has been put into motion. I’m so thrilled to be able to stay involved with the theater and the community of Fountain Hills.”

For more information, contact Henderson or McGee at 480-837-9661. Information about the organization can be found at fhtaz.org.