LGBTQ+ Community, Social & Dating in New York City

Dr. Carla Smith

CEO, The LGBT Community Center (The Center)

Dr. Carla Smith became CEO of The Center in February 2024, the first person of color to lead the West Village institution. She oversees programs that range from youth services and recovery support to community events and the LGBTQ+ archive. In 2026 she hosted the Dutch prime minister and Mayor Mamdani at The Center and led a gala that raised more than $2 million.