Orlando, Fla. – Carlton Fields’ Orlando Shareholder Keith Hesse was elected president of Orlando Shakespeare Theater’s (OST) board of directors during the organization’s annual board meeting on June 6, 2011. He will serve a two-year term.

Hesse was unanimously elected president by the board’s 40-plus members. In this role he will lead the board in its responsibilities for the theater’s business, management, policies and direction.

Hesse has been involved with OST for many years and has served as a board member since 2007. He also has served on a variety of the theater’s committees, and most recently chaired OST’s Advisory Council.

Hesse is a member of Carlton Fields’ Business Litigation & Trade Regulation practice group and is head of the firm’s Probate and Trust litigation subgroup. His practice includes representation of corporations, partnerships, governmental entities, civil and charitable organizations, trusts and estates fiduciaries and individuals. He has practiced civil litigation in state and federal courts for 28 years.

OST, in partnership with the University of Central Florida, is in its 23rd season and produces professional theater, develops new plays and provides innovative educational experiences that enrich its community. OST’s elected officers include: Vice Presidents – Suzanne Gilbert, Holland & Knight and Jack Lord, Foley & Lardner; Secretary – Shirley Bias, Orlando Utilities Commission; Treasurer – Janet Rapp, Geller Ragans James Oppenheimer & Creel; and Board Chairperson Rita Lowndes (Community Leader).