New York, NY, November 18, 2025 – 4A Arts (American Alliance of Artists and Audiences) is proud to announce the expansion of its Board of Directors with the addition of Dr. Aida Levitan, Dr. Lyndon Haviland, Karen Howard, and Alison Friedman. Together, these accomplished leaders bring expertise spanning the arts, philanthropy, finance, health, and education, guiding 4A Arts into its next phase of strategic growth.
“This marks a turning point for our organization,” said Board Chair Luis R. Cancel. “We’re evolving from a founder’s board into a strategic growth board. Each of these new members brings vision, energy, and real-world experience that will help 4A Arts amplify creativity’s role in American life.”
Meet the New Board Members
Dr. Aida Levitan — Cultural Entrepreneur, Finance Titan, and Philanthropist
Based in Miami, Dr. Levitan is a renowned leader in public relations and finance, serving on the board of U.S. Century Bank and founding ArtesMiami, a nonprofit promoting Hispanic arts and culture. She has also served with the Pérez Art Museum and the National Museum of the American Latino Commission.
“I’ve seen how the arts make life in Miami more meaningful for everyone. I hope to expand that energy nationally through 4A Arts.”
Dr. Lyndon Haviland — Public Health Expert and Global Wellness Advocate
A doctor of public health, Dr. Haviland has dedicated her career to advancing wellness and equity worldwide.
“Self-expression is vital to mental health,” said Dr. Haviland. “Art helps people heal — the science supports it — and 4A Arts is raising awareness of that connection. I look forward to helping inspire narrative change around the link between the creative economy and the wellbeing economy.”
Karen Howard — Elected Official and Arts Education Advocate
Published poet, painter, and chair of the Chatham County Board of Commissioners in North Carolina, Ms. Howard brings deep experience in education, governance, and community engagement.
“I’ve seen how the arts empower people, including my own children. 4A Arts’ mission to inspire creativity and civic connection is something every community can benefit from.”
Alison Friedman — Arts Ambassador and Cultural Innovator
An internationally recognized dance leader, Ms. Friedman has spent her career expanding access to the performing arts and advocating for public investment in creativity.
“4A Arts has tremendous potential to elevate the value of creativity in everyday life. I’m eager to help make that case to leaders nationwide.”
Advancing a National Vision for Grassroots Arts Advocacy
“4A Arts is pioneering a national effort to make creativity a civic priority,” said Executive Director Gavin Lodge. “With these new leaders on our board, we’re expanding our reach, strengthening partnerships, and building an interdisciplinary movement to ensure the arts are recognized as essential to American wellbeing.”
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