Kate D. Levin served as Commissioner of the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs from 2002 to 2013.

Managing the largest single arts funder in the U.S. outside of the federal government, she increased the number of non-profit cultural organizations receiving support and grant awards both by more than 30%, as well as creative sector participation in economic development, tourism, human service and education initiatives. During her tenure, capital funding recipients tripled, expanding the agency’s oversight of planning, design and financing for cultural construction projects — directing over $3 billion for projects in neighborhoods across the city. Technology improvements streamlined application procedures and data collection, and capacity-building programs strengthened non-profit leadership. Levin oversaw the city’s permanent public art commissioning program, and helped develop and promote numerous temporary exhibitions and performances. She worked to create several new cultural districts and organizations, extending New York’s vitality and impact as a world cultural capital.

A former Professor of English at the City College of New York, CUNY, Levin also served in the administration of Mayor Ed Koch.