Madelyn Wils, chairperson of Community Board 1, has been namedpresident and chief executive officer of the Tribeca Film Institute and will assumeher new post in February.

In her role, Wils will oversee the institute's year-round,non-festival-related programming and educational activities.

Her appointment means the institute will expand its mandate toinclude performing arts and lectures. The institute was founded by Robert DeNiro, Jane Rosenthal and Craig Hatkoff in the wake of the September 11 attacksto regenerate lower Manhattan through cultural projects.

"Madelyn Wils has shown a deep dedication to the community oflower Manhattan and she is the perfect person to lead the Tribeca FilmInstitute as it continues its mission to rejuvenate downtown," De Niro said ina statement.

She willcontinue to serve as chairperson of Community Board 1, representing theFinancial District, Battery Park City, The Civic Centre, Tribeca and The SouthStreet Seaport.