By CGN Staff

Mayor Brandon Johnson today announced the nomination of Deputy Mayor Kenya Merritt as Commissioner of the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE), following her service as acting commissioner since October 2025.

Merritt brings more than 25 years of experience in city government and has served as Deputy Mayor of Business, Economic, and Neighborhood Development since 2023.

“From the start of my administration, Deputy Mayor Kenya Merritt has delivered steady leadership and real results for the people of Chicago,” Johnson said. “Her experience supporting small businesses and neighborhood development, paired with her commitment to arts and culture, make her well positioned to lead DCASE.”

“I’m honored and excited to step into this role,” Merritt said. “The arts are essential to the vibrancy of our neighborhoods and our city, and I’m committed to investing in Chicago’s creative ecosystem and supporting artists and cultural organizations.”

Merritt steps into the role following the departure of former commissioner Clinée Hedspeth, whose tenure ended amid criticism from staff and members of the arts community regarding workplace culture and leadership at the department.

Since becoming acting commissioner, the announcement says, Merritt has emphasized arts and culture as a driver of Chicago’s economy, with a focus on supporting artists and organizations, activating public spaces, and expanding the city’s cultural reach. As Deputy Mayor, she has led key elements of Johnson’s economic agenda, including the “Cut the Tape” initiative to streamline development processes and the implementation of the city’s $1.25 billion Housing and Economic Development Bond.

Previously, Merritt served as First Deputy Commissioner and Chief Small Business Officer at the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection, and held financial leadership roles across city government, including Chief Financial Officer at DCASE and the Department of Family and Support Services.

Merritt holds a master’s degree in public service management from DePaul University and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. There is no mention of Merritt having previously worked for or led any arts-focused organizations. Merritt's LinkedIn profile shows she has worked for the City of Chicago in various department as far back as 2000, except for a period of eight months when she worked for the Pritzker Traubert Foundation as a program officer from 2022-2023.

The appointment is subject to City Council approval.