David Lewis is the executive director of the Mississippi Arts Commission, the state’s arts agency that provides grants and programs to the arts community in Mississippi.

A Mississippi native, Lewis is undeniably passionate about the state and all it offers. In his role, Lewis travels throughout the state to local communities to meet with artists, art organizations, and community leaders about the impact of the arts and how MAC can support them. Lewis is responsible for strategic planning, public speaking, grants administration, business management, partnership development, and other duties.

Since joining MAC, Lewis has significantly elevated the Governor’s Arts Awards program. His efforts have led to a substantial increase in sponsorships and a renewed focus on sharing the recipient’s unique story. Furthermore, he has extended the State Arts Conference to a two-day event, providing more networking opportunities and an evening event for attendees and the wider community. Lewis’s instrumental role in bringing the National Folk Festival to Jackson for 2025, 2026, and 2027 demonstrates his leadership and vision.

Lewis serves on multiple boards, including Mississippi Delta National Heritage Area, Mississippi Blues Trail, Mississippi Country Music Trail, Mississippi Book Festival, and SouthArts, and is on the commission for Mississippi’s America 250 celebration.

Lewis received his bachelor’s degree in Architecture from Mississippi State University and a master’s in urban and regional planning from Jackson State University. Lewis and his wife, Mary Lee, live in Jackson with their two children.