The Levines of Douglaston Development honored at Met Real Estate Council Benefit

Manhattan, NY Douglaston Development chairman and founder, Jeffrey Levine and former U.S. ambassador to Portugal Randi Charno Levine were honored at The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Real Estate Council Benefit, a signature annual event celebrating leaders in real estate, civic life, and the cultural community. The event brought together industry executives, public-sector leaders, and arts advocates to support The Met’s mission and celebrate the critical role museums play in shaping New York’s civic and cultural identity.

Introduced by governor Kathy Hochul and artist Deborah Kass, the Levines were recognized for their long-standing leadership, public service, and commitment to strengthening the connection between New York’s built environment and the arts. The event was well attended, featuring artists such as Deborah Kass, Hank Willis Thomas, Aliza Nisenbaum, Sanford Biggers, and curator Ana Sokoloff.

Ambassador Levine was honored for her impact on cultural diplomacy and her lifelong dedication to the arts. During her tenure as U.S. Ambassador to Portugal, she expanded cultural bridges through the landmark Art in Embassies exhibition and was awarded Portugal’s Grand Cross of the Order of Prince Henry the Navigator, the country’s highest honor for a non–head of state. Since returning to the U.S., she has continued her work in international affairs and the arts through the Council on Foreign Relations, board service with the New Museum and Meridian International Center, and as a Visiting Fellow at Arizona State University’s Institute of Politics. Ambassador Levine was also recently named Honorary Professor of Art and Diplomacy at Católica University, recognizing her contributions to global cultural engagement.

“New York has always been a city built on relationships, people to people, block by block, dream by dream,” Ambassador Levine said. “Real estate and the arts are two sides to that same story. Both create spaces where life unfolds, where people come together, and where beauty and meaning can take shape. Institutions like The Met remind us of that creativity, civic spirit, and community are inseparable.”

Jeffrey Levine, a lifelong New Yorker, spoke to the importance of The Met as a civic asset that contributes to the fabric of life in New York. He emphasized the responsibility of real estate leaders to support cultural institutions and ensure they remain accessible, relevant, and integrated with the communities they serve.

“As someone who has had the privilege of developing housing and community spaces across New York City, I’ve seen how thoughtfully designed environments can bring people together and enrich civic life,” Levine said. “Supporting institutions like The Met ensures that generations of New Yorkers continue to find inspiration, connection, and opportunity right here in their city.”

Over his career, Levine has overseen the development and revitalization of numerous residential and mixed-use projects across New York City, transforming neighborhoods while preserving the city’s architectural character. His work spans historic renovations, community-focused housing, and innovative urban design, consistently prioritizing sustainability, accessibility, and cultural engagement. Through these projects, he has helped shape vibrant, inclusive spaces that serve both residents and the broader public, reinforcing the city’s identity as a hub of creativity and community.