David Saltz, Professor of Theatre and Film and Executive Director of the UGA Arts Collaborative, has assumed the presidency of the National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST). Founded in 1965, NAST is the national accrediting body for theatre programs at schools, conservatories, colleges, and universities, establishing standards for undergraduate and graduate degrees in theatre and theatre-related disciplines across approximately 182 accredited member institutions.

Saltz was elected to the presidency by the heads of those member institutions, transitioning into the role at the conclusion of NAST's annual meeting. He brings extensive experience to the position, having previously served in multiple elected roles on NAST's Commission on Accreditation and Executive Board, most recently as Vice President.

The election caps a career of sustained leadership in theatre education. Saltz served as Head of UGA's Department of Theatre and Film Studies for eighteen years (2004–2022), one of the longest tenures in the department's history, before stepping down to focus on his research and teaching.