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The Hylton Performing Arts Center (HPAC) welcomes Carolyn Hays as its new Director of Development. A seasoned nonprofit leader with more than two decades of experience in strategic planning, board development, and fundraising, Hays brings her wealth of expertise to the role. Hays will act as Chief Development Officer at the Hylton Center and be responsible for senior leadership, donor relations and stewardship, and sponsorships, among other areas. Hays assumes her new role nearly one year after the official launch of George Mason University’s historic $1 billion dollar comprehensive campaign, Mason Now: Power the Possible. Fundraising for the Hylton Center will be a priority for the campaign and is a key element of the Hylton Center's growth, strategic planning, and outreach activities.
Hays, is a seasoned nonprofit leader with over two decades of expertise in strategic planning, board development, and successful fundraising efforts, both at the annual and major gift levels. Having dedicated nearly a decade to community hospital philanthropy with CHI Foundations of Texas in the Greater Houston area and UVA Community Health in Northern Virginia, Carolyn now brings her strong experience to the Hylton Performing Arts Center. Returning to her roots in arts and culture fundraising, she kickstarted her career with renowned organizations such as Washington Performing Arts (Society), Washington National Opera, and the Smithsonian Institution’s National Zoo.
Hailing proudly from Wyoming, Carolyn earned her Bachelor of Music Degree in Vocal Performance from the University of Wyoming, followed by a Master of Arts Degree in Nonprofit Business/Arts Administration from Florida State University. She holds the title of Certified Fundraising Executive from CFRE International and is also a Certified Governance Trainer through BoardSource. Additionally, she serves as a lecturer in the Arts Leadership department at the University of Houston.