NEW ORLEANS — Don Marshall, executive director of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival Foundation since 2004, has announced his plan to retire. He will remain in his position with the foundation while a national search is conducted for his successor, and he will guide his replacement through Jazz Fest 2024 (April 25-May 5).
Marshall created multiple music festivals after Hurricane Katrina to support and promote Louisiana musicians. He guided the creation of the George & Joyce Wein Jazz & Heritage Center. He led the growth of the foundation’s Community Partnership Program from $50,000 in awards each year to over $1.5 million each year. And he created the Jazz & Heritage Concert Series, which presents more than 30 Louisiana music groups each year and has a worldwide reach via WWOZ.
“Our board congratulates Don on his retirement. It is well deserved,” said Tara Hernandez, board chair of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival Foundation, in a press release. “Don has been extremely valuable to our organization’s growth and success during his 20-year tenure. We look forward to celebrating his accomplishments and are grateful for his assistance with the transition when we identify our new leader.”
The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, owned by the Jazz and Heritage Festival Foundation, serves as the foundation’s largest fundraiser.
“While the day is coming when we do not see Don at the office, we will surely see him out there at foundation-produced festivals and concerts enjoying the fruits of his labors,” said Hernandez. “We wish him well!”
