LOUISVILLE, Ky. — One of Louisville's cultural cornerstones is seeking new leadership. 

The Muhammad Ali Center began a national search for a new CEO, with outgoing President and CEO Marilyn Jackson joining the American Alliance of Museums as its next president and CEO.

"I am deeply grateful for the privilege of serving as the president and CEO of the Muhammad Ali Center," Jackson said. "Ali, a global icon, dedicated his life to the pursuit of justice, inspiring positive change worldwide. It has been an immense honor to be a part of this legacy."

"Louisville is fortunate to have the Center, and I extend my heartfelt thanks to all those who supported us since the Center’s founding in 2005. I have full confidence and trust this great institution will continue the progress we’ve made together."

Jackson helped create and implement a strategic plan with influence from community leaders during her two years at the center. The roadmap for its success supported the creation of new educational programs, expanded partnerships at the local and global levels and attracted new corporate partners and philanthropists who have provided resources to improve the physical space, the center said.

"Marilyn was instrumental in creating a new path for the center, re-energizing our initial mission: to promote positive social change through education, community and Muhammad's legacy," said Lonnie Ali, Muhammad Ali's wife. "As we begin our search for a new CEO, I am confident our transition team will find the best leaders our communities have to offer."

The center said Jackson will remain in her current position at the center for several weeks. She will support a transition team identifying potential candidates led by Nicole Yates, with members including Lonnie Ali, Greg Fischer, Ingrid Gentry, Bennie Ivory and Stephen Reily. 

"Marilyn Jackson brought a wide range of skills to the Ali Center, and her success in Louisville was noticed by the nation," said Reily, a former member of the Ali Center Board of Trustees, former director of the Speed Art Museum and founding director of the Remuseum Project. "She is now assuming one of the most important museum jobs in the country, supporting 35,000 museums and museum professionals who are members of the American Alliance of Museums."

Those interested in the position should contact the transition team at Transitions@alicenter.org, the center said.