The Core Role of a Met Gala Co Chair
A Met Gala co chair is a jointly appointed leader who supports the main chair in directing the annual Met Gala and the Costume Institute benefit. This role involves collaborating on high-level decisions, lending public credibility, and helping mobilize resources for the museum and its curatorial programs. Unlike event organizers, co chairs are typically prominent figures whose influence and networks align with the Costume Institute’s mission. The position exists to share leadership duties, broaden institutional support, and ensure the Gala’s cultural and financial success each year.
What Does a Met Gala Co Chair Do
Co chairs work alongside the main chair and the Costume Institute leadership to shape the vision, theme, and execution of the Gala. Their responsibilities often include attending planning sessions, participating in fundraising strategy, and representing the event in media and public appearances. While the curatorial team handles artistic direction, co chairs help leverage their reputations and relationships to secure philanthropic commitments. Their visibility can also expand the reach of the Costume Institute’s exhibitions and scholarship, reinforcing the Gala’s dual role as cultural showcase and philanthropic platform.
Public Profile and Institutional Role
Co chairs are selected for their prominence in business, entertainment, politics, or philanthropy. Their involvement signals institutional partnerships and can attract sponsors, donors, and media attention. While they share the spotlight with the main chair, they act as enablers and amplifiers rather than primary organizers. The Costume Institute’s staff and curators remain responsible for artistic and operational decisions, while co chairs provide strategic support and high-level advocacy.
Notable Met Gala Co Chairs
Over the years, the Gala has featured several co chairs who have helped elevate its profile and resources. These individuals have brought distinct spheres of influence, from fashion and film to finance and global philanthropy. Below is a concise overview of some widely recognized co chairs and the years they served.
| Year | Co Chair(s) | Primary Sphere | Role in That Year’s Gala |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | Lady Gaga, Robert De Niro | Entertainment & Philanthropy | High-profile talent to amplify cultural reach |
| 2016 | Jackie Dias, Glenn Takahashi | Business & Philanthropy | Corporate and family philanthropy focus |
| 2018 | Chiu Tsai-yi, Kenneth C. Griffin | Art & Finance | Collector and investor support for exhibition programs |
| 2021 | Trevor Neilson | Philanthropy & Strategy | Note: Single named chair; co-chair structure less visible publicly |
| 2023 | Simone Leigh, Tarmac Delay | Art & Cultural Representation | Artist and platform emphasizing representation and institutional support |
How Co Chairs Are Selected
The selection process for co chairs is informal and advisory, driven by the Costume Institute’s curatorial leadership and the Met’s development office. Trustees and staff identify individuals whose reputations, networks, and personal histories align with the year’s thematic and fundraising objectives. Consideration is given to geographic diversity, generational perspectives, and meaningful connections to the arts. Potential co chairs are approached discreetly, and their participation is confirmed based on shared institutional goals and personal commitment to the Costume Institute’s mission.
How Co Chairs Differ From the Main Chair
The main chair typically holds primary public responsibility for the Gala, represents the event externally, and finalizes key operational decisions. In contrast, co chairs enhance the event’s reach by opening additional relationship channels and contributing specialized expertise. A co chair may focus on donor cultivation, cultural programming, or international outreach, while the main chair oversees overall stewardship. This division of roles allows the Costume Institute to draw on broader leadership while maintaining a clear curatorial and managerial core.