He made his announcement at the monthly meeting of the council of Actors' Equity. "It has been an honor and a privilege to represent the Council and American Stage Actors and Stage Managers," Eisenberg said. "I have always tried to carry out this responsibility with dedication to, and pride in the membership. I have always been and continue to be committed to helping all our actors." Eisenberg has steered Equity during some of the toughest times in the union's history, including the proliferation of non-union road tours, the economically shaky aftermath of Sept. 11 and the 2003 strike by the Broadway musicians union, which was supported by Equity.

Actors' Equity President Patrick Quinn said in a statement, "During his tenure, Alan has led Equity to significant achievements. His most recent accomplishment was the newly created Experimental Touring Program in the Production Contract. His dedication to Equity and his clear vision for our union have benefited our members immeasurably."

According to the union, under Eisenberg's leadership, "Equity investments have increased in value from $1.7 million to more than $22 million. Between 1981 and the present, membership has increased from 28,678 to 46,000 and workweeks have increased by more than 70,000 weeks annually. Earnings for Actors have jumped from $118.6 million to $250.3 million."