The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has elected producer Lynette Howell Taylor as its new president, marking a significant moment for the organization as it continues to evolve in its support of global filmmaking. Howell Taylor, a longtime member of the Academy Board of Governors representing the Producers Branch, begins her first term as president during her second term as governor.
The 2025-2026 Academy officers were also announced: Lesley Barber (Music Branch) as Vice President and chair of the Membership Committee; Jennifer Fox (Producers Branch) as Vice President and chair of the Awards Committee; Simon Kilmurry (Documentary Branch) as Vice President/Treasurer and chair of the Finance Committee; Lou Diamond Phillips (Actors Branch) as Vice President and chair of the Equity and Inclusion Committee; and Howard A. Rodman (Writers Branch) as Vice President/Secretary and chair of the Governance Committee. Barber and Rodman were re-elected, while Fox, Kilmurry, and Phillips join the officer roster for the first time.
Academy CEO Bill Kramer praised Howell Taylor’s election, stating, “Lynette has been a vital part of the Academy Board of Governors for many years, most recently revitalizing our awards work as chair of the board’s Awards Committee. This is an exceptional group of Academy members who will advance the Academy’s mission, support our membership around the world, ensure our long-term financial stability, and celebrate the achievements of the global filmmaking community.”
Howell Taylor has been an Academy member since 2014 and boasts an impressive producing career spanning more than 25 films over the past two decades. Her credits include critically acclaimed projects such as A Star is Born, which received eight Oscar® nominations, including a Best Picture nod for Howell Taylor herself. Other notable films include Captain Fantastic, Big Eyes, The Place Beyond the Pines, Blue Valentine, Half Nelson, and The Accountant series. She also produced the 92nd Oscars® broadcast alongside Stephanie Allain, earning an Emmy® nomination for the production. Her upcoming project, Roofman, is highly anticipated.
The Academy’s Board of Governors sets its strategic direction, safeguards the organization’s financial health, and ensures the fulfillment of its mission to support and celebrate cinematic achievements worldwide. Governors may serve up to two three-year terms consecutively or non-consecutively, with the possibility of renewal following a two-year hiatus, for a lifetime maximum of 12 years. Officers serve one-year terms, with a maximum of four consecutive years in any one office.
With Howell Taylor at the helm, the Academy looks to continue its commitment to inclusivity, innovation, and excellence in film, both on screen and within the organization itself.
For a complete listing of the Academy’s 2025-2026 Board of Governors, visit the official Academy website.