Deborah Lugo

Deborah is an established arts and education leader known for building exemplary institutions with a collaborative and inclusive approach. She currently serves as Vice President of Programming and Education at The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, where she is responsible for realizing The Hobby Center’s creative vision by leading execution of its strategic programming, education, and community engagement initiatives.

Previously, Deborah served as founding Executive Director of Arts Connect Houston, where she helped forge a community of more than 90 partner organizations from diverse sectors around the shared goal of expanding equitable access to the arts for students across Houston. She also served as the first Executive Director of Mercury Chamber Orchestra, leading its growth from a young Baroque ensemble into a renowned chamber orchestra. Originally from Puerto Rico, Deborah has a Bachelor of Music in Violin Performance from Florida International University and a Master in Public Policy from Princeton University.