ROCKLAND — Sarah Ruddy, executive director of the Strand Theatre, will leave her post on July 31. Ruddy, who has helmed the downtown nonprofit historic theater for two years, has accepted a teaching position at the Maine School for Science and Mathematics in Limestone beginning in the fall, according to a Friends of the Strand Theatre press release Tuesday.

"We're really going to miss Sarah," said Jo Dondis, Friends of the Strand Theatre Board Chairman in the release. "She's been a remarkable leader for the theater during the recent transition to a nonprofit. By skillfully building bridges to the community, Sarah in effect changed the face of the Strand during her tenure and we're sorry to lose her. The Board wishes her the best of luck in her new job and feels fortunate to have had her with us during a challenging time for the Strand."

During her tenure, Ruddy has overseen the conversion from film to digital projection, the implementation of a membership program and major expansion in advertising and sponsorship revenues for the theater.

"It's been an honor to be involved with the Strand during such an important part of the theater's story, and a privilege to work alongside such a passionate and dedicated staff, without whom we could not have accomplished what we have done in the past two years," said Ruddy in the release.

She added that she is looking forward to pursuing her true vocation, which is teaching, full-time — "and I will be so happy to watch the Strand continue to thrive from my new home."

The search is underway for a new executive director. Interested candidates should submit a resume (including references and contact information) and a cover letter to The Strand Search Committee, P.O. Box 433, Rockland, ME 04841.