The Hylton Performing Arts Center has named Carolyn Hays as its new executive director, effective May 10, 2026. Hays, who has served as the center’s director of development since February 2024, succeeds Rick Davis following a national search. Davis is retiring after nearly 15 years as executive director.

Hays brings more than two decades of experience in strategic planning, board development, fundraising and organizational leadership across the arts, higher education and healthcare philanthropy sectors. She previously held positions at Washington Performing Arts, Washington National Opera, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and community hospitals in Texas and Northern Virginia. She has also taught arts leadership and management at the University of Houston and George Mason University and currently serves on the board of the Prince William Chamber of Commerce as a member of the 2026 Leadership Prince William class.