Mark Folkes

Mark Folkes is the current President & CEO at Hobby Center for the Performing Arts. Mark has held this position since August of 2022. Prior to this, they served as the Chief Advancement Officer at the Greater Houston Community Foundation from November 2021 to August 2022. Before that, they were the Chief Growth Officer at the Greater Houston Community Foundation from April 2021 to November 2021.

Folkes began their career in the arts as the Managing Director at Stages in July 2015 and held that position until April 2021. From October 2013 to June 2015, they served as the Senior Director of Development at the Houston Symphony. Mark then became the Director of Individual Giving & Major Gifts at the Houston Symphony in February 2012 and held that position until October 2013.

In July 2011, Folkes became the Director of Individual Giving at Planned Parenthood Gulf Coast, Inc. and held that position until February 2012. Mark then became the Manager of Annual Giving & Donor Stewardship at Planned Parenthood Gulf Coast, Inc. from July 2009 to July 2011.

Folkes has also worked in development for several other organizations including the College-Conservatory of Music, Houston Grand Opera, and Toronto Symphony Orchestra.

Mark Folkes' educational background is in the performing arts. Mark has a Bachelor of Arts in Drama from the University of Waterloo, and a Certificate in Performing Arts from the Canadian College of Performing Arts. Mark also has a certification from CFRE International as a Certified Fund Raising Executive.

Some individuals on their team include Lynne Earll - Director of Finance, Denise Wright - Director of Operations, and Elizabeth McClees - Box Office Manager.