Mercedes Rohlfs

As Senior Director of Development at Lookingglass, she leads the theatre’s advancement strategy with a focus on deepening donor engagement, expanding philanthropic partnerships, and elevating the impact of one of Chicago’s most inventive cultural institutions.

Prior to joining Lookingglass, Mercedes spearheaded local and national development programs, major gifts strategies, and multimillion-dollar campaigns, cultivating enduring relationships across the arts, education, and healthcare sectors. Having worked with revered arts organizations like Ravinia Festival, Steppenwolf Theatre, and Chicago Children’s Museum, Mercedes remains deeply invested in advancing the cultural richness that makes Chicago exceptional. She is thrilled to champion Lookingglass Theatre’s bold vision and help shape its next era of artistic excellence and civic engagement.

Outside of her work at Lookingglass, Mercedes is a volunteer coach, fitness instructor, dedicated partner, and proud mother of two.

Bio as of 2025