SOUTHERN HEADS FILM FESTIVAL
	CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va., Feb. 1--Hugh Southern becomes the new
director of the Virginia Festival of American Film today, announced
Philip M. Nowlen, dean of the University of Virginia's continuing
education division, which is the festival's sponsor.
	A former manager of New York City's Metropolitan Opera,
Southern was deputy chairman for programs at the National Endowment
for the Arts from 1982 to 1989. At the federal agency he managed 12
programs ranging from dance to the visual arts with a staff of 105
and a grants budget of more than $100 million.
	From 1968 to 1982, Southern was executive director of the
Theatre Development Fund Inc. of New York City.  During his tenure,
he established a major ticket subsidy and discount marketing program
including the half-price TKTS ticket booth in Times Square. In
addition, he raised more than $10 million in contributions and
grants for the not-for-profit organization.
	"We are fortunate to have so distinguished a professional
agree to direct the festival as we enter our eighth year," Nowlen
said.  "The festival is gaining in standing and prominence as it
matures.  I believe Mr. Southern will take us to the next plateau,
greatly enhance our reputation--nationally and internationally--and
contribute significantly to our growth," he added.
	Southern, who is on the advisory committee of Arts
International, has served as director of numerous organizations
including the Actor's Fund of America and The Film Forum.  He has
taught

courses in arts management at Columbia University's School of the
Arts and Yale University's drama school.
	"I look forward to broadening the festival's reach and
audience while intensifying industry participation and securing a
sound financial base," Southern said.
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February 1, 1995

	FOR MORE INFORMATION Southern can be reached at (804)
982-5277 and Nowlen is at (804) 982-5206.