AEA's Kathryn Lamkey Set to Retire in December

Actors' Equity Association announced today that Kathryn V. Lamkey, Assistant Executive Director/Central Regional Director, will retire after 25 years with the Union. Lamkey's last day in the office will be December 29, 2011. A search for her replacement will begin shortly.

During her tenure with Equity, Lamkey was instrumental in the purchase and renovation of the Equity Building in Chicago in 2009 -10, establishing a sound investment and permanent presence in the Windy City. She has created a strong relationship with Equity's many bargaining partners in the Central Region that has resulted in continued growth for the theater scene. Lamkey was also instrumental in the establishment of Tier N in the Chicago Area Theater Contract, creating a true developmental process that has brought over a dozen theaters onto the contract.

"This has been a challenging job, but a fulfilling one," said Ms. Lamkey. "It has been a truly rewarding experience to work for and with the dedicated members and staff of Equity as well as other theatre and entertainment industry professionals across this region and the nation."

A member of Equity since 1972, Lamkey joined the staff as a Business Rep in 1986. She was promoted in 1991 to Senior Business Rep. In 1996, Equity tapped Lamkey to be the Central Regional Director where she oversaw contracts administration, contract negotiation and related matters in 16 states in the middle of the country. She has served as the chief negotiator for such contracts as the MSUA, CAT, CTC, 2nd City, several special agreements and spearheaded the creation of the Midsize Contract. She has also served on the negotiating teams for the Production, LORT, COST, TYA and SETA agreements. Lamkey also supervised a staff of 20 business reps, contract associates and support staff.

Prior to joining Equity's staff, Lamkey was a stage manager for theatrical and dance productions. She has also directed and designed lights for educational, community and professional theatre. Her early career found her at Elmwood Park High School where for 14 years she taught social studies, directed theatre, negotiated for the teachers' union and coached girl's basketball. Lamkey is a graduate of Eastern Illinois University and Columbia College Chicago.

"Kathryn has been an integral part of the leadership of Equity and we are grateful for all she has accomplished on behalf of Equity's membership," said Executive Director Mary McColl. "Through her creativity and thoughtfulness, she has been instrumental in the growth and prosperity of theaters throughout the Central Region.

Founded in 1913, Actors' Equity Association represents more than 49,000 Actors and Stage Managers in the United States. Equity seeks to advance, promote and foster the art of live theatre as an essential component of our society. Equity negotiates wages and working conditions, providing a wide range of benefits, including health and pension plans. AEA is a member of the AFL-CIO and is affiliated with FIA, an international organization of performing arts unions.

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