Newark Symphony Hall said Wednesday that Mack Graham was named director of development, and will be charged with leading the state’s largest Black-led arts and entertainment venue’s new fundraising department. In his new role, funded by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, Graham will create and steward relationships and partnerships for NSH to sustain and increase funding streams.
“I’m thrilled that Mack has joined our leadership team, as he brings deep experience in social justice advocacy, nonprofit leadership and brand development,” NSH CEO and President Taneshia Nash Laird said. “As we continue to raise funds for a $50 million renovation timed with our 100th birthday in 2025, Mack’s unique mix of experience and talents will be invaluable to us.”
Before joining NSH, Graham was the executive director of the Long Beach Martin Luther King Center in Long Beach, New York, where he managed programs, fundraising, finances, communications and staffing. He has also served as director of development at Lifeline Center for Child Development, a development manager for iMentor and director of outreach at Texas Association of Nonprofit Organizations.
“As a community organizer, I am inspired by the Newark Symphony Hall’s legacy and its commitment to empowering the community through arts, invaluable educational programs and outreach,” Graham said. “I am thrilled to be part of this organization and look forward to continuing the work to rejuvenate the community of Newark.”
Graham holds a master’s degree in nonprofit leadership from Fordham University and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Stony Brook University. After beginning his professional career marketing musical acts for Warner Music Group and Universal Music Group, Graham chose a social-services path and became a foster-care planner in 2010, working as an advocate for children and families.
