Mark George serves as President of the Encore Center for Performing Arts, leading efforts to bring a regional performing arts venue to DuPage County and the greater Chicagoland area. A nationally respected arts leader, he previously spent 15 years as President and CEO of the Music Institute of Chicago, where he elevated the organization’s national profile in music education, performance, and community programming. Earlier in his career, he held leadership roles at the Hartt School Community Division and the Cleveland Institute of Music, and helped lead the resurgence of the Grammy Award–winning Cleveland Chamber Symphony. Recognized as Chicagoan of the Year in Classical Music by the Chicago Tribune, Mark is known for expanding access to the arts and fostering strong community connections. He works closely with the ECPA board and partners to guide the project from vision to reality and establish a vibrant cultural destination for the region.