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Meet the New Executive Director of Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs: Adriane V. Jefferson

Adriane V. Jefferson
Office of Cultural Affairs
Adriane Jefferson

Mayor Andre Dickens announced Adriane V. Jefferson as the new Executive Director of the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs (OCA) beginning February 28, 2025. With nationally recognized expertise in cultural equity, arts administration, and community transformation, Jefferson is poised to bring a fresh and inclusive perspective to Atlanta's cultural landscape. Her visionary leadership will foster innovation while honoring and preserving the city’s rich artistic heritage.

“Atlanta’s arts and culture are deeply woven into the fabric of our community, reflecting creativity, diversity, progress and authenticity,” said Mayor Andre Dickens. “Adriane Jefferson is the transformative leader we need to amplify our cultural presence and further our commitment to fostering a city where art and equity thrive together. We are thrilled to welcome her to Atlanta and continue building on our rich legacy of artistic excellence and cultural inclusion for generations to come.”

Jefferson is a national award-winning cultural equity leader who has dedicated more than 20 years to transforming cultural landscapes, shaping policy, and redefining arts administration. Jefferson is an avid advocate for enhancing unique and diverse voices and driving equity in the arts. She previously served as Director of Cultural Affairs for the City of New Haven and Executive Director of New Haven Festivals Inc. There, she spearheaded initiatives such as the Arts for Anti-Racism Pledge, The Unapologetically Radical Conference and Connecticut’s first-ever cultural equity plan. Her groundbreaking work includes the creation of the New Haven Black Wall Street Festival and leadership of the Core Race Equity Task Force, which advises city leadership on race equity and system improvements.

“Atlanta is a city with a powerful cultural identity, fueled by its history, resilience and creativity. I am deeply honored to join this vibrant community and to collaborate with its incredible artists, organizations, creative entrepreneurs and residents to build on this legacy while innovating for the future in bold and transformative ways,” said Adriane Jefferson.

Jefferson’s accomplishments extend beyond local impact, earning her national recognition as a leader in cultural strategy. She has received prestigious honors such as the 40 Under 40 Award from the Urban Professionals Network and Connecticut Magazine, and the American Express Emerging Leadership Award from Americans for the Arts. Her expertise has been featured in major outlets including the New York Times, Black Business Enterprise, Yahoo News and Americans for the Arts’ Arts Link Magazine. Through her work, she bridges history, civics, and community engagement, driving meaningful connections while shaping the future of arts and culture.

In her new role, Jefferson will lead a dynamic and experienced team of professionals in the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs, guiding its mission to develop, promote and preserve cultural initiatives and programs that enhance the quality of life for all Atlantans.

Under her leadership, the Office of Cultural Affairs will:

  • Continue delivering world-class cultural experiences through signature events like the Atlanta Jazz Festival.
  • Expand grant opportunities and economic support for artists and arts organizations.
  • Advance public art initiatives that reflect the vibrancy and diversity of Atlanta.
  • Collaborate with local, national, and international partners to position Atlanta as a global cultural powerhouse.
  • Foster cultural equity and inclusivity by championing diverse voices and artistic expressions.

As a transformative leader in arts administration, Jefferson is poised to elevate Atlanta's cultural landscape by promoting original voices and expanding access for diverse audiences. Her commitment to fostering creative innovation will enrich the city's artistic community by integrating varied perspectives and sparking new collaborations. Jefferson's strategic emphasis on building partnerships and supporting emerging talents underscores her approach, Moreover, Jefferson will have an opportunity to draw upon Camille Russell Love’s 25 years of experience as Love assumes her new role as a Senior Advisor to the Mayor, furthering the foundational achievements already in place.

For more information about the Office of Cultural Affairs and upcoming initiatives, click here.