Patrick Torres

Patrick Torres (he/him/his) is a nationally recognized arts leader with over 20 years of experience in nonprofit management, arts education, and community engagement. A passionate advocate for equity and access, Torres has dedicated his career to building inclusive creative organizations that uplift underrepresented voices, strengthen organizational cultures, and foster meaningful community connections. 

Prior to joining ACG, Torres served as Executive Director of Creative Action in Austin, Texas, where he led the organization through a period of meaningful transformation. He guided a strategic internal restructure, conducted a major capital campaign, and advanced plans for a new 25,000-square-foot creative facility. His leadership expanded the organization’s reach through dynamic new partnerships—including collaborations with Austin PBS and the Travis County Juvenile Probation Department—and strengthened its visibility and cross-sector influence across Central Texas. 

Previously, Torres served as Artistic Director of Raleigh Little Theatre, where he became the first person of color to hold the position in the company’s 80-year history. During his tenure, he implemented inclusive casting and production practices, launched artist development programs for BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ creatives, and guided the organization through significant cultural and strategic transformation.  

Earlier in his career, Torres held leadership and teaching positions at Young Playwrights’ Theater and The Shakespeare Theatre Company, designing award-winning youth programs, facilitating national partnerships, and leading initiatives recognized by First Lady Michelle Obama through the National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Award.  

A Theatre Communications Group Young Leader of Color and recipient of the Raleigh Medal of Arts, Torres continues to support organizations across the country in developing bold leadership models, inclusive practices, and strategic frameworks that reflect their values and communities. 

He holds a bachelor of fine arts from Texas State University and a master of fine arts in performance with an emphasis in directing from the University of Southern Mississippi.