Mitchell, most recently on Broadway in a Tony-nominated turn in the revival of Man of La Mancha, succeeds Tom Dillon, who was president of the Fund for 15 years; Dillon is now President Emeritus. Mitchell became a Trustee of the Actors' Fund in 1998. In a statement, the Fund's executive director, Joseph P. Benincasa, said, "With over 25 years in the industry, Stokes has a strong appreciation for the challenges of being an entertainment professional. As we face the critical issues around health care and affordable housing in the entertainment industry, Stokes will bring the vision and leadership that will move The Actors' Fund forward as we head into our 125th anniversary year."

Brian Stokes Mitchell won the 2000 Tony, Outer Critics Circle and Drama Desk awards for his performance as Fred Graham/Petruchio in Kiss Me, Kate, and his other Broadway credits include lead roles in King Hedley II; Ragtime; Kiss of the Spider Woman; Jelly's Last Jam; Oh, Kay!; Mail; and the City Center Encores! presentations of Do Re Mi and Carnival. Television audiences will be familiar with Mitchell's work from his roles on "Trapper John, M.D.," "Roots" and "Frasier."

The Actors' Fund of America, a nonprofit organization founded in 1882, provides for the social welfare of all entertainment professionals. Its headquarters and The Aurora Residence are located in New York City, and its nursing home and assisted living care facility are in Englewood, New Jersey.