Kennedy Center Fires Jazz Programming Veteran After 30 Years of Service

Breaking News: Jazz Head at Kennedy Center is Latest Firing The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts has fired Kevin Struthers, a senior director of music programming who had been with the institution for 30 years. Struthers confirmed his termination to NPR on Thursday. Struthers was the administrative director of the Kennedy Center's jazz programming, and his dismissal is the latest in a string of firings and resignations at the center since President Trump became its chair in February and appointed Richard Grennell as president. The firings were first reported by The Washington Post on Thursday. The immediate impact of Struthers' termination is being felt within the music community, with many expressing concern about the future of jazz programming at the Kennedy Center. "This is a devastating loss for the jazz community," said one musician who wished to remain anonymous. "Kevin was a champion of jazz and a beloved figure in our community." The firings have sparked widespread criticism and raised questions about the direction of the Kennedy Center under its new leadership. Many are calling for greater transparency and accountability from the institution. In recent months, the Kennedy Center has faced controversy over its handling of diversity and inclusion initiatives. The firings have only added to the sense of unease within the arts community. As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the music programming at the Kennedy Center will never be the same without Kevin Struthers at the helm. *This story is developing. Information compiled from Npr reporting.*