Multiple gold Oscar statues standing in a row, representing membership in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. — Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences

The Academy Unveils 2026-2027 Chairs and Vice Chairs for Committees and Affinity Groups

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has officially announced its leadership appointments for the 2026-2027 term, covering a wide array of committees and affinity groups. These member-led roles, including appointments to the newly formed Academy Marquee Theater Committee, are designed to advance Academy initiatives and inform global industry policy.

RMN News Academy Desk
New Delhi | August 19, 2026

The Academy Strengthens Leadership for 2026-2027 Term

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) announced on August 18 the newly appointed chairs and vice chairs for its 2026-2027 committees and affinity groups. These appointments, which serve one-year terms, are integral to the Academy’s structure as a member-led organization, helping to inform policy, manage programs, and represent the interests of its global membership.

Academy President Lynette Howell Taylor and CEO Bill Kramer emphasized the importance of these roles, stating that the dedication of these leaders ensures the Academy is “well-positioned for the future”.

New and Specialized Committees

A notable addition this year is the Academy Marquee Theater Committee, which is tasked with reviewing submissions and recommending theaters for inclusion on the Academy Marquee Theater List. This committee will be co-chaired by Sean Baker (Directors Branch) and Samantha Quan (Producers Branch).

Other critical awards-related leadership includes:

International Feature Film Executive Committee: Co-chaired by Michèle Ohayon and James Wilson.
Short Films Qualifying Festivals Selection Committee: Chaired by Summer Joy Main-Muñoz.
Scientific and Technical Awards Executive Committee: Co-chaired by Darin Grant and Rachel Rose.

Membership and Branch Leadership

The Branch and Category Executive Committees oversee vital business, including membership reviews and award eligibility. Key chairs for the upcoming term include:

Actors Branch: Rita Wilson
Executives Branch: Pam Abdy
Writers Branch: Howard A. Rodman
Directors Branch: Patricia Cardoso
Producers Branch: Effie T. Brown

Additionally, global engagement remains a priority with specialized committees for different regions. Peter Devlin will chair the International Engagement Committee, while Maggie Todd and Mia Neal will lead the London and New York Committees, respectively.

Affinity Groups and Inclusion

The Academy continues to foster community through its Affinity Groups, which focus on underrepresented and marginalized communities. These groups provide networking opportunities and offer guidance on programming and awards. Leadership for these groups includes:

Asian Affinity Group: Stephanie Lowry (Chair) and Guneet Monga (Vice Chair).
Black Caucus: Taura Stinson (Chair) and Renard T. Jenkins (Vice Chair).
LGBTQ+ Coalition: Co-chaired by Andrew Ahn and Kimberly Reed.
Indigenous Alliance: Chaired by Chelsea Winstanley.

Academy Foundation and Science Council

Leadership was also named for foundation-led initiatives, such as the Academy Museum Inclusion Advisory Committee, chaired by Bird Runningwater, and the Student Academy Awards Executive Committee, chaired by Brooke Breton. Furthermore, Annie Chang will chair the Science and Technology Council, with Nick Cannon serving as vice chair, to guide standards and developments in filmmaking.

With a global membership of over 11,000 artists and leaders, these appointments represent the Academy’s ongoing commitment to excellence and inclusion across the film industry.