Joyce Leveston, president and chief executive officer of Javits Center, has been elected chair of UFI’s North American Chapter.
Her three-year term will begin after UFI’s General Assembly, which will take place ahead of the UFI Global Congress in November 2026.
Leveston to lead North American Chapter
Leveston joined the UFI board of directors in June 2025. As chair of the North American Chapter, she will focus on member engagement and recruitment across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
“I am honored to serve as Chair of UFI’s North American Chapter and look forward to bringing people together to strengthen industry connections, advance regional priorities, and foster innovation that will shape the future of our industry,” Leveston says.
Career includes venue leadership
Leveston serves as president and chief executive officer of the New York Convention Center Operating Corporation, which operates Javits Center.
She has more than 35 years of experience in the convention and hospitality industry. Before joining Javits Center, Leveston served as senior vice president of convention centers at Oak View Group. In that role, she oversaw strategy and operations for more than 60 convention and conference centers nationwide.
Her career also includes senior venue roles in Boston, Washington, D.C., Miami, Houston, and San Diego.
UFI role supports regional collaboration
UFI Regional Chapter chairs and vice chairs work on regional issues, member engagement, and ideas relevant to their markets. They also support UFI’s growth by encouraging organizations to join and participate.
“Our Regional Chapters are at the heart of what UFI does: connecting our global community and ensuring our members’ voices are heard in every corner of the world,” says Panittha Buri, president of UFI. “I warmly congratulate all newly elected Chairs and Vice-Chairs, and extend my sincere thanks to those stepping down for their dedication and service.”
Founded in 1925, UFI represents the global exhibition industry. The association includes close to 900 member organizations across 90 countries and regions, directly representing more than 50,000 exhibition industry employees worldwide.
About Javits Center
The New York Convention Center Operating Corporation (NYCCOC), also known as the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, operates Javits Center on Manhattan’s West Side. Opened in 1986, the six-block-long venue hosts major events and serves as an economic driver for New York State and New York City. Javits Center has also invested in sustainability, security, and technology. For more info, visit www.javitscenter.com.
Press release submitted by Javits Center. Edited by Exhibit City News for clarity, length, and style.
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