Paul Levitz

Biography

Before joining NYU Stern, Professor Levitz had a long career as an industry leader both creatively and as an executive. His work at Warner Bros.’ DC Comics subsidiary for five decades included a pivotal role in creating the graphic novel category in America, building the unit into a worldwide cultural leader, and being credited with improving working conditions for creatives in the comics field. He held positions on the editorial side of the company from when he was 16 years old at studying at Stern’s predecessor, NYU College of Business and Public Administration, went on to run the company’s business activities from the time he was 24, and finished his time there are President & Publisher. His work involved him in virtually every media form and exploitation.

In addition to his business leadership, Professor Levitz is an accomplished writer and editor. He has published over 500 stories, graphic novels and several historical books about the comics industry, including New York Times Graphic Books Best-Sellers in both fiction and non-fiction. His most recent project was a comic for the New York City Department of Education and the Tenement Museum. He has received numerous awards in America and Europe, starting with Best Fan Magazine when he was 15, and culminating in being inducted into the comics Industry’s prestigious Will Eisner Hall of Fame.

For the past14 years, Professor Levitz has balanced doing consulting work for major firms including Warner Bros., Disney, Penguin Random House and KKR, with writing and teaching. He teaches in Columbia University’s American Studies program, Pace University’s M.S. in Publishing Program and English Department, and has taught classes and guest lectured at a wide variety of institutions on creative and business subjects. He has served on business and charitable boards, and currently is on the board of the Clarion Foundation.

Professor Levitz describes himself as “proud NYU drop out,” having been in the College of Business and Public Administration’s B.A/M.B.A. program, but not completing either degree. He was awarded a Doctorate in Humane Letters by Pace University in 2024.

Courses Taught

• Globalization of the Entertainment Industry