City & State Names Two Alumni to 2025 Arts & Culture Trailblazers List

New York is home to world-renowned cultural institutions which have driven cultural tourism and cultivated creativity for generations. City & State’s 2025 Trailblazers in Arts & Culture power list highlights the leaders helping New York’s arts and culture scene continue to flourish, including two NYU Wagner alumni. 

Katherine DeFoyd (MPA 1998), Founding Partner, Growth for Good

As a founder of Growth for Good, Katherine DeFoyd has helped New York’s cultural institutions secure millions in funding and achieve double-digit growth in annual fundraising. Previously, she worked in City Hall under the Koch and Dinkins administrations, where she honed her expertise in public-private partnerships. 

Alan van Capelle (EMPA 2012), Executive Director, Friends of the High Line

Having previously led Education Alliance and Empire State Pride Agenda, Alan van Capelle brings a variety of public service experience to his current role at Friends of the High Line. As executive director, he is a champion for bringing greater accessibility and inclusive programming to the High Line.