​Laurie Taylor is serving as The Carousel Center's first development manager, according to a news release.

Taylor, a certified fundraising executive, joined the group earlier this year and brings more than 20 years of experience in charitable fundraising, capital campaigns and event management to the center, officials said in the release.

“I’m thrilled to join The Carousel Center and look forward to building a comprehensive development program for this wonderful organization whose mission is to help children heal,” said Taylor in the release. “I love working in development where I meet the most wonderful philanthropic people in our community, all who want to make a difference where they live.”
 
Taylor was previously vice president of development at Lower Cape Fear Hospice. She raised $38 million and completed four capital campaigns over her 14-year tenure, stated the release. 

She is also active in local community groups, Women's Impact Network of New Hanover County and the Cape Fear Region Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP).

With AFP, she has been recognized as the Outstanding Professional Fundraising Executive of the Year in 2009. She was also a board member of the New Hanover County Community Foundation for 14 years, stated the release.