From UNM to Universal: A conversation with Mark Woodbury

In this special edition of the Lobo Living Room, join University of New Mexico President Garnett S. Stokes in a conversation with UNM alum, and Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Universal Destinations & Experiences (UDX) Mark Woodbury on Wednesday, March 25 from 11 a.m. to 12 noon in the Garcia Honda Auditorium located in George Pearl Hall on UNM's central campus.

In this fireside chat, Woodbury will reflect on his journey from UNM to leading a global entertainment portfolio at the intersection of architecture and storytelling. He will explore how design and innovation come together to create immersive worlds and what it takes to transform bold ideas into unforgettable experiences. The conversation will be followed by a presentation to Woodbury of the 2025 Architecture+Planning Distinguished Alumni Award.

Admission is free for alumni, but space is limited. To secure tickets, click here. The event is also open to UNM affiliates and Lobo supporters.

In his current role, Woodbury oversees all aspects including the design, build, and operations of the company's growing portfolio of innovative entertainment resorts and live experiences worldwide including Universal Orlando Resort, Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Japan and Universal Beijing Resort and the soon-to-open Universal Kids Resort. He also leads NBCU's global consumer products and gaming division and is on NBCUniversal's Executive Committee. Prior to being named Chairman and CEO in 2021, he served as vice chairman and president of Universal Creative, the group responsible for development strategy for the business and creating, planning and designing all Universal attractions and destinations worldwide.

Woodbury began his career more than 30 years ago during the development of Universal Studios Florida. As former president of Universal Creative, he helped shape some of the most innovative and iconic immersive environments in the world, including groundbreaking themed lands and attractions across multiple continents. His creative leadership has been instrumental in projects including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World and a multitude of Universal's unique, immersive and exciting attractions around the globe and other globally recognized destinations.

Woodbury holds an honorary Doctor of Arts degree from Ringling College of Art and Design, a Master of Architecture degree from the University of Wisconsin and a Bachelor of Arts in architecture from the University of New Mexico. He is a licensed architect and an active member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA).

The Lobo Living Room showcases distinguished UNM alumni engaging in discussions, demonstrations, and performances related to their fields of expertise.

For more information, visit the Lobo Living Room.