Sarah Jessica Parker, Forest Whitaker, Edward Norton And Others Appointed As Members Of Obama's Committee On The Arts And Humanities

Washington, DC (CNS) - Sarah Jessica Parker, Forest Whitaker, Edward Norton, and Vogue magazine editor Anna Wintour have joined President Obama's Committee on the Arts and Humanities.

They were among the 25 members appointed by the president on Monday, joining other appointees Kerry Washington, cellist Yo-Yo Ma, and Alfre Woodard.

The American president also appointed his first lady, Michelle Obama, as the honorary chair of the committee.

Obama previously selected filmmaker George Stevens Jr. and theater producer Margo Lion to serve as co-chairmen of the committee. New York University's Tisch School of the Arts dean Mary Schmidt serves as vice chairman.

The committee aims to engage both the public and business in the arts. It was first conceived in 1982 under the then U.S. leader Ronald Reagan's administration. It also initiates and supports key programs, and recognizes excellence in the arts and humanities category.