Debra and Mark Grierson define Southern hospitality. Debra was born in Bowling Green, Kentucky and raised in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and it is no surprise that she married LSU graduate and native Houstonian Mark Grierson. Together they are very active in the community and focus much of their time on raising money for non-profit organizations that benefit children, family, animals, and related health and human service groups. Since 2003, the Grierson’s have been instrumental in raising millions in Houston’s philanthropic community, changing the lives of countless people and families.
Debra has chaired the Trees of Hope Gala, Houston Symphony Maestro Collection Luncheon, Moores School of Music Luncheon, Jane Block Awards Luncheon, Society for the Performing Arts Luncheon and Gala, World AIDS Day Luncheon, Contemporary Arts Museum Gala, and March of Dimes Signature Chefs. Together, Debra and Mark have co-chaired of the Children’s Museum of Houston Gala, Houston Ballet Ball, Houston Zoo Ball, Cabaret for a Cure, The Council on Alcohol and Drugs Houston Luncheon, and were honored at the 2008 HSPCA Gala and received the 11th Jerry D. Bartee Humanitarian Award from Legacy Community Health Services. In addition, Debra is currently a board member of Zoo Friends of Houston, Houston Ballet, and March of Dimes Guild. She serves on the advisory board at Children’s Museum of Houston, is a member of Houston’s Best Dressed Hall of Fame, and was honored as a 2007 Woman of Distinction by CCFA. Mark sits on the board of Legacy Community Health Endowment and The Council on Alcohol and Drugs Houston.
With over twenty years of experience of hands-on volunteering, it is family that remains most important to Debra, Mark, and daughters Lucy (20) and Emily (24). When not volunteering their time, Debra and Mark can typically be found spending time with their “household zoo” consisting of a Yorkshire terrier, a Cavalier King Charles spaniel, a Labrador retriever, a horse, and a cat.