The Ragtag Film Society Board of Directors announces the departure, after nearly 14 years with the organization, of Executive Director Arin Liberman. “Arin’s leadership skills and endearing personality will be greatly missed by the Society, but her unwavering dedication to the organization means she will always lend a helping hand where needed. I have no doubt that she’ll be an enthusiastic ambassador in the future.” said board member, Gary Oxenhandler.

Starting with True/False Film Fest in 2011, Liberman took on new challenges year after year, building out the management of programming and communications teams, serving as the organization’s first-ever Chief People Officer, and bringing new systems and organization to True/False and eventually Ragtag Cinema. She has been Executive Director of RFS for the past year, and in Executive Leadership for three years prior. “The decision to leave this job was a difficult one, given how much love and respect I have for my team and all that this role has taught me, but continuing to champion the Fest and the Cinema from the outside will be an exceedingly easy choice given how deeply I believe in the mission and the benefit RFS brings to Columbia and the film world.” said Liberman.

The Board of Directors has appointed an Interim Executive Leadership Team to transition the organization into the next phase. Chloé Trayner, Artistic Director, Grace Piontek, Operations Director, and Emily Edwards, Marketing & Communications Director will serve on the team, working together to make executive decisions until a new Executive Director is in place. Liberman will continue to consult for the organization over the next few months, working with the Leadership Team and Board of Directors on next steps. “We’re thrilled to have these three capable and talented people leading the organization as we search for a new executive director. Chloé, Emily, and Grace bring a depth of understanding and leadership to the organization. They’re the ideal management team for the Society during this transition,” said Barnett.

A board-appointed transition committee has been meeting regularly, and the search for a new Executive Director will begin next month. The annual True/False Film Fest will take place February 27-March 2, 2025 and Ragtag Cinema remains open in downtown Columbia 360 days a year.