They say the first 60 days in a new leadership role are a whirlwind. As I approach that exact milestone here at the Hylton Performing Arts Center, I can officially confirm that “they” were understating this.
As many of you know, my email signature recently went through a bit of a reimagining. Stepping out of the Director of Development role and into the Executive Director chair has been an incredible joy, and don’t worry, my deep love for philanthropy isn't going anywhere. If anything, my time in development taught me exactly how crucial every single gift, conversation, and seat filled is to keeping our curtains rising. My role has evolved and I’m looking at the stage from a slightly different seat in the house now, but my commitment to our mission remains exactly the same.
It is a genuinely thrilling time to be here, and the energy across Mason Arts is contagious. A huge piece of that momentum comes from next door, where Rick Davis officially stepped into his role as the full-time Dean of the College of Visual and Performing Arts at George Mason University. Having Rick’s visionary, powerhouse leadership at the Mason Arts helm full-time means we are entering a truly remarkable era of collaboration and growth.
Speaking of that incredible energy...we have some momentous news.
Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, we have officially fulfilled our $15 million endowment goal! As a former Development Director, my heart is completely full. This endowment provides the essential cornerstone that enables our financial sustainability and artistic creativity, and yet, it is truly just the beginning of what we need to fuel our future growth and expand our impact.
To that end, the real momentum continues. The Executive Board and I are crafting our next five-year strategic plan. Far from boring administrative paperwork, this is the roadmap for our next great act. We are dreaming big about what the future of performance, education, and community connection looks like right here in our region.
Let’s Connect on July 20!
Because a roadmap is only as good as the community it serves, I want to invite you to join me personally on July 20 at 5 p.m. at the Hylton Center. This gathering will be a wonderful opportunity for me to share more about my vision for the future of the Hylton Center.
Great performing arts centers aren't built in a vacuum; they are co-created with the people who love them most. Whether you want to hear about where we are heading, learn more about how to participate in the strategic plan, or simply let me say a proper "thank you" in person for your incredible support, I would absolutely love to see you there.
Thank you all for making these first weeks so unforgettable. See you at the Hylton Center on the 20th!
Warmly,
Carolyn Hays
Executive Director, Hylton Performing Arts Center