The Chicago City Council has confirmed the appointment of Kenya Merritt as Commissioner of the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events.
A longtime civic leader with more than 25 years of experience, Merritt has served as Deputy Mayor of Business, Economic, and Neighborhood Development since 2023 and as acting Commissioner of DCASE since October 2025.
“I want to congratulate Commissioner Kenya Merritt on her confirmation by City Council,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson. “Kenya is a devoted public servant with extensive experience growing economic development in our communities. Her continued leadership of the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events will help our creative communities flourish and reinforces our commitment to make Chicago a world class arts destination.”
“I am deeply grateful for my confirmation as Commissioner of the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events and for the opportunity to continue serving the great city of Chicago,” said Merritt. “Chicago’s arts and cultural community is unmatched, and I am committed to advancing bold investments, expanding equitable access and strengthening our creative economy. Together, we will build a more connected and thriving cultural ecosystem, one that reflects the diversity, innovation and global influence of our city.”
In her role as Deputy Mayor, Merritt led the launch and implementation of key elements of the mayor’s economic agenda, including the Cut the Tape initiative, which streamlined more than 100 housing and commercial development processes. She also played a central role in advancing the city’s $1.25 billion Housing and Economic Development Bond.
Since stepping in as acting Commissioner, Merritt has advanced a strategy positioning arts and culture as a driver of Chicago’s economy through investment in artists and arts organizations, activation of public spaces and efforts to expand the city’s global cultural presence.
Prior to her current appointment, Merritt served as First Deputy Commissioner and Chief Small Business Officer for the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection, supporting entrepreneurs, including those in the creative industries.
Her previous roles also include serving as Chief Financial Officer at both DCASE and the Department of Family and Support Services, along with leadership work in early childhood programs and citywide budget strategy.
Merritt holds a Master of Science in Public Service Management from DePaul University and a Bachelor of Arts from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
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