Consultant
Through the lens of four decades in nonprofit leadership, Michael J. Marks can see the big picture – and bring it into view for clients. Michael’s wealth of experience in organizing and running nonprofits makes him ideally suited for that role. His track record includes transforming organizations, launching major growth initiatives, and identifying strategic opportunities and plans to achieve them. In addition to conducting planning studies and advising on campaign strategy, he provides insight on day-to-day challenges.
After 13 years in the national health agency sector, Michael spent the next 30 years in the museum field. He served as president and CEO for three museums: the Museum of Contemporary Art in Virginia Beach, The Health Museum of Cleveland, and Coastal Discovery Museum in Hilton Head. Among his successes were planning and executing capital campaigns up to $20 million, developing master plans, establishing endowments, and taking part in fundraising campaigns that have raised more than $100 million in total.
Michael holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Kentucky; participated in the master’s program in urban studies and community health planning at Old Dominion University; earned a museum management certificate from the University of Colorado; and completed executive education programs at Harvard University Graduate School of Business and the Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University, where he was a Professional Fellow.
Michael serves as an elected commissioner for the Hilton Head Island Public Service District. He is a former board member of the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry and continues to serve on its Development and Donor Services Committee, where he is also a past chair. He chaired the foundation’s Hilton Head Public Art Committee. Michael also chairs the Arts Council of Hilton Head Island, is a 25-year member of the Rotary Club of Hilton Head Island, and serves on the board of Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park. He previously held leadership roles with the Virginia Association of Museums (president), the Ohio Museums Association (president), and the Cleveland Cultural Coalition (treasurer).
