Laura Gerald

President

At the Trust

I work every day to ensure the Trust’s investments achieve Mrs. Reynolds’ vision of improving the health and quality of life of North Carolinians. I lead strategic direction and am responsible for overall management of the Trust. As president, I represent the Trust and take a leadership role in philanthropy at the state and national level.

My Proudest Accomplishment

My proudest accomplishments are those of the Trust, including, after 70 years, setting a new strategic direction to achieve Mrs. Reynolds’ vision. I am excited that everything we do—our grantmaking, our messaging, and even our website—remain consistent with Mrs. Reynolds’ values, to inform our success today.

Before I Got Here

  • Market Medical Director, Evolent Health
  • North Carolina State Health Director and the Director of the Division of Public Health
  • Executive Director, North Carolina Health and Wellness Trust Fund Commission
  • Senior Medical Consultant, Community Care of North Carolina
  • Pediatrician, Lumberton, NC

Education and Awards

  • Bachelor of Arts, Harvard and Radcliffe Colleges
  • Doctor of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
  • Master of Public Health, Harvard University School of Public Health
  • David T. Tayloe Sr. Award for Outstanding Community Service, 2020, North Carolina Pediatric Society

When the Day is Done

I serve on the boards of Grantmakers in Health, Reynolda House, Southeastern Council of Foundations, and the North Carolina Network of Grantmakers. I am a board-certified pediatrician and fellow in American Academy of Pediatrics and an adjunct assistant professor at UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health. In addition, I have two beautiful boys, and I enjoy hiking, traveling, cooking, and reading.

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