Tammie Rosen, Tribeca and Sundance Communications Leader, Passes Away at 49
Tammie Rosen, Influential Communications Executive, Passes Away at 49
Tammie Rosen, a prominent figure in the film and entertainment industry known for her work with Tribeca Enterprises and the Sundance Institute, passed away early Wednesday at the age of 49 after battling cancer in recent months.
Rosen was widely recognized among filmmakers, festival executives, talent, and journalists for her personable and upbeat demeanor, even in challenging times. Her infectious laughter and signature red lipstick became hallmarks of her vibrant passion for life and culture.
Born and raised in New Jersey, Rosen cherished her roots and was an avid admirer of Bruce Springsteen. She began her career at Rubenstein Communications in New York, where she played a critical role in public relations for the Tribeca Film Festival starting in 2004, just two years after its inception. By 2007, she transitioned to an in-house position at Tribeca, becoming an essential advisor to co-founders Jane Rosenthal and Robert De Niro as the organization expanded globally and diversified its offerings.
Rosen’s fashion PR background complemented her work at Tribeca, which stood at the nexus of film, music, culture, and technology in a post-9/11 Lower Manhattan that transformed into a cultural epicenter. Her keen ability to recognize and cultivate opportunities contributed greatly to her professional achievements and the deep connections she fostered within the community.
In 2019, Rosen ascended to the role of Executive Vice President of Communications and Programming at Tribeca before becoming the Chief Communications Officer at the Sundance Institute. In this capacity, she guided the festival through the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, including the significant decision to relocate the festival from Park City, Utah, to Boulder, Colorado. The upcoming festival will mark its final edition at its original location.
In a joint statement, De Niro and Rosenthal reflected on her extraordinary contributions: “Tammie’s passion, commitment, selflessness, hard work, love of our community, the arts, filmmakers, and the stories they tell was infectious. She guided creative strategies that expanded Tribeca into global markets and various sectors. We will forever be in awe of her tireless dedication, her impeccable ethics, and her remarkable leadership. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to her mom Sheryle, sister Stefani, brother Brian, and the rest of her family and friends.”
Ebs Burnough, Chair of the Sundance Institute Board, expressed the institute’s profound sadness over Rosen’s passing. “Tammie was a remarkable leader whose integrity, compassion, and unwavering commitment to our organization will have a lasting impact,” he stated. “She embodied the joy and power of our mission, inspiring her colleagues with her warmth, generosity, and keen intelligence. Tammie was one of a kind, and she will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Our hearts are with her family and loved ones during this extraordinarily difficult time.”
