Mark Pendergrass

About Mark Pendergrass

A highly accomplished and versatile professional with extensive years of experience in…

Experience

1. Founder Executive Director

   Wells Fargo

   Aug 2015 — Present · Charlotte, NC, US

   As Founder and Executive Director of Creating Exposure Through The Arts, I lead a mission-driven 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to empowering youth and adults artists through mentorship, education, and creative opportunity. I have designed and delivered innovative visual arts programs that integrate photography, digital media, music, and real-world experiences—helping young people build confidence, creativity, and career readiness. Through successful grant writing, I have secured critical funding to sustain and expand programs for underserved communities, while forging partnerships with schools, philanthropic organizations, and corporate sponsors to extend impact. My leadership has driven community development initiatives, exhibitions, and youth showcases, and I produced Behind the Ink, an award-winning documentary that amplifies underrepresented voices and cultural storytelling. By aligning strategy, fundraising, donor relations, and board development, I have positioned Creating Exposure Through The Arts as a recognized leader in arts education—positively impacting hundreds of students and emerging artists on their paths to higher education, creative careers, and personal growth.

Education

• Rutgers University

  Mass Communication/Media Studies/Journalism

  1984 — 1988