Home / Arts and Entertainment / Kaufman Retires: NYC Creative Sector Legacy
Kaufman Retires: NYC Creative Sector Legacy
20 Feb
Summary
- Media Commissioner Pat Swinney Kaufman retires after a significant tenure.
- Rafael Espinal appointed to lead the Mayor's Office of Media and Entertainment.
- New administration aims to support artists and freelancers in NYC.
Pat Swinney Kaufman is retiring from her role as Media and Entertainment Commissioner for the NYC Mayor's Office. She expressed gratitude for her career, which began with a childhood dream of working in New York's creative industries. Kaufman emphasized the vital role of these sectors in the city's economy and her efforts to ensure New York remains a prime filming destination post-COVID.
During her tenure, the office supported the creative economy through various initiatives, including the 'Made in NY' Fund and the NYC Video Game Festival. Programs like 'The NYC Field Guide' and partnerships with organizations like HITN and TDF also advanced creative access and inclusion.
Rafael Espinal has been appointed as the new commissioner under Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Espinal, formerly of the Freelancers Union, aims to support New York City's artists and freelancers, recognizing their contribution to the city's culture and economy. His focus will be on ensuring creatives can afford to live and work in the city.
