The Trinity Repertory Company has found its new artistic director.

The award-winning regional theater company is bringing in Meredith McDonough, a New Jersey native who has helped shape new play development across the country, from Louisville’s Humana Festival to Silicon Valley.

McDonough will succeed Curt Columbus, a towering presence in Rhode Island’s arts community for the past two decades. He directed his final show at Trinity, “The Roommate,” last week.

The appointment marks the first time Trinity’s executive leadership will be composed of two women. The organization’s executive director is Katie Liberman.

“I fell in love with Trinity Rep the first time I visited Providence and experienced the power of the work happening on that stage,” McDonough said in a statement. “The theater's extraordinary company, its deep connection to the community, and its commitment to creating space for conversation and discovery make it a truly special place. I’m honored and excited to join this remarkable artistic family and begin our next chapter together.”

McDonough, who earned an undergraduate degree at Northwestern University and a master’s degree from the University of California, San Diego, was selected by Trinity’s board after a national search. She will begin Aug. 3 after relocating from Brooklyn.